The Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer, the Hon Bernie Ripoll MP, will depart on Sunday 1 July, as the head of Australia's delegation to the 16th annual Pacific Islands Forum Economic Ministers' Meeting (FEMM), to be held in Tarawa, Kiribati, from 2‑4 July 2012.
As the only regional meeting of Economic Ministers in the Pacific, FEMM provides a unique opportunity for Ministers to connect with their counterparts to share national experiences and encourage discussion on economic issues facing the Pacific region.
"FEMM discussions help to develop the sound economic policy that is essential for strong growth and development in the Pacific", said Mr Ripoll.
"Often the most effective method of encouraging reform is by sharing experiences and lessons learned with other countries. As such, FEMM is a key institution in shaping and helping to guide these reform experiences in the region."
Mr Ripoll will give a presentation to Ministers about progress on reducing the cost of sending remittances to the Pacific. Australia has also co‑authored a discussion paper on the economic empowerment of women, which is expected to be a key issue at this year's meeting.
While at FEMM, Mr Ripoll will hold bilateral meetings with several Pacific nations, as well as attending formal and informal meetings.
"I look forward to engaging with my Pacific island colleagues to discuss the key economic issues facing our region."
29 June 2012