PM Transcripts

J,), AUSTALIA PRESS STATEMENT NO. 120
28 August 1973
AUSTRALIA/ JAPAN MINISTERIAL MEETING
The Prime Minister has accepted an invitation from
the Japanese Government to make an official visit to Japan
from 26 to 31 October this year.
This will be only the third time that an Australian
Prime Minister has visited Japan. Previous visits were
made by Sir Robert Menzies in 1957 and Mr. Gorton in 1970.
Mr. Whitlam's visit will underline the importance which
the Australian Government attaches to Australia's relations
with Japan. He will be received by the Emperor and have
talks with the Japanese Prime MinisterMr. Tanaka, and the
Japanese Foreign Minister, Mr. Ohira.
Mr. Whitlam will lead the Australian delegation to
the second meeting of the Australia/ Japan Ministerial
Committee which will take place on 29-30 October.
The Minister for Overseas Trade and Secondary Industry,
Dr. Cairns, the Treasurer, Mr. Crean, the Minister for
Primary Industry, Senator Wriedt, and the Minister for Minerals
and Energy, Mr. Connor, will join the Prime Minister as members
of the Australian delegation to the meeting.
: I . Mr. Whitlam said this would be the most important
single delegation of ministers ever sent overseas by Australia.
Discussion at the meeting will concentrate on trade, economic
And resources questions of interest to both countries.
Mr. Whitlam will be accompanied by his wife and senior
officials.
,, CANBERRA, A. C. T.