I am pleased to announce that Prime Minister Helen Clark of New Zealand will visit Canberra on Wednesday 8 February for our annual trans-Tasman talks.
Australia and New Zealand share a uniquely close relationship, reflected in wide-ranging political, economic, foreign policy, cultural and other co-operation. Our two countries continue to be natural partners and the closer integration achieved between Australia and New Zealand in recent years has contributed substantially to both countries' economic well-being and given us a direct stake in each other's continued success and prosperity.
We will be discussing a range of bilateral regional and international issues including our joint commitment to playing a constructive international role in the Asia Pacific region.