Islamic State video announces creation of a province in The Philippines

I will visit Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines from 13-17 March to promote and enhance Australia’s relationships with three key partners in Southeast Asia.

During my visit I will meet with the Foreign Ministers and other senior government ministers from all three countries. 

In Singapore, I will discuss our strong cooperation under the Australia-Singapore Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. At the invitation of the International Institute for Strategic Studies, I will deliver the 28th Fullerton Lecture.

I will also officially launch our fifth Innovation Landing Pad, which will assist Australian start-ups by linking them to entrepreneur and capital networks in the region, and meet Australian business representatives, alumni and our New Colombo Plan scholars.

In Malaysia, I will discuss bilateral relations, including progress under our Strategic Partnership. I will also explore opportunities to deepen our economic, trade and security ties, and engage Australian businesses. 

While in Kuala Lumpur I will address an International Women’s Day event and meet with business leaders to discuss the future direction of the Malaysian economy.

In the Philippines, I will discuss our mutual interests in counter terrorism; maritime and regional security; and peace and development in Mindanao. While in Manila I will deliver a keynote address at the Stratbase Albert del Rosario Institute for Strategic and International Studies on regional challenges and opportunities for Australia and the Philippines. 

I will also announce the Business Coalition of the ‘Investing in Women Initiative’ to promote women’s participation in the private sector, meet Australian scholarship alumni in Davao, and announce Australia’s next phase of support for education in Mindanao.