Visit to Japan by The Hon Stephen Smith MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia

January 25, 2008

The Hon Stephen Smith MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, will visit Japan from January 31 (Thu) to February 1 (Fri).
During his stay, Mr. Smith will have talks with Mr. Masahiko Koumura, Minister for Foreign Affairs, and other key figures both from the Government of Japan and the Japanese private sector. Mr. Smith will exchange opinions with Mr. Koumura on the global issues including bilateral relations. Taking this opportunity, both ministers will sign the Convention for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income.
The forthcoming visit will be the first to Japan by a Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia since the Labor Government was launched after the general election held in Australia in November last year. It is expected that Mr. Smith’s visit will further promote bilateral relations between Japan and Australia.

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