Welcoming the important strategic and defence cooperation between the two countries, Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop noted: “We look forward to welcoming our counterparts, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, Mr Yun Byung-se and the Minister of National Defense, Han Min-koo, to Sydney for discussions on strengthening this important bilateral relationship.”

According to officials the discussions will focus on advancing security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. Austrlain FM has committed that Australia “remain committed to addressing strategic challenges in our region, including security on the Korean Peninsula.” 

According to a statement issued by the Foreign Minister Bishop both the countries leaders are expected to negotiate a blueprint for enhanced security and defence cooperation, building on the 2014 Vision Statement for a secure, peaceful and prosperous future for our two countries agreed between Prime Minister Abbott and President Park.

The ROK is one of Australia’s closest partners in our region. Our defence cooperation has deep roots in our shared sacrifice in the Korean War and has increased significantly, including through military exercises on the Korean Peninsula.

Reviewing trade relationship the Australian Foreign Minister also noted “Our commercial ties are strong and growing under the Korea-Australia Free Trade Agreement. The ROK is Australia’s fourth-largest trading partner and is also Australia’s third-largest export market.” 

The Austrian Minister also stressed that both the states were working together to support global and regional growth and stability through the G20, APEC, East Asia Summit and the grouping of Mexico, Indonesia, Korea, Turkey, Australia (MIKTA) countries and the New Colombo Plan.