I am pleased to announce that the President of the Argentine Republic,
Dr Carlos Saul Menem will visit Sydney and Canberra
from 29 March to 1 April. Dr Menem will be accompanied by senior
Argentine ministers and a large business delegation.
The visit is an excellent opportunity to build further the trade and
investment links between our countries. The business delegation accompanying
Dr Menem will include representatives from the transport, agriculture
and mining sectors.
Australia and Argentina are both strong commodities producers, with
fast developing manufacturing and services sectors. Argentine industries
are increasingly turning to the Asia-Pacific for new markets and Australian
companies are being drawn by opportunities in South America.
Australia and Argentina share similar perspectives on a range of international
issues, including our mutual interest in liberalising agricultural
trade.
I look forward to my discussions with Dr Menem, with a view to deepening
the relationship between our countries.