Senator the Hon Marise Payne to represent Australia at the 19th Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers’ Meeting
“I will visit London from 9 to 10 July to represent Australia at the 19th Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers' Meeting and the Global Conference for Media Freedom.
“The Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers' Meeting brings together representatives from 53 countries that are home to more than 2.4 billion people. This meeting is an important opportunity to advance our common values and address shared challenges.
“As a founding member state, Australia has a fundamental interest in ensuring the Commonwealth remains a modern and effective global institution. My attendance reinforces Australia's strong support of the UK as the current Chair-in-Office of the Commonwealth.
“This meeting is an opportunity to progress the Commonwealth's reform and renewal agenda. A more coordinated, efficient and effective Commonwealth is important to strengthening our shared commitment to democracy, human rights, gender equality, sustainable development, good governance and the rule of law.
“At the Global Conference for Media Freedom, co-hosted by the United Kingdom and Canada, I will join government representatives, journalists, civil society and other stakeholders from across the globe to promote freedom of expression and join global efforts to prevent attacks against journalists.
“The Morrison Government is committed to ensuring our democracy upholds a free press and keeps Australians safe — two fundamental tenets of our democracy.
“I look forward to working with my counterparts to ensure productive meetings and reinforce Australia's support for an open, liberal and rules-based international order.”
