MINISTER FOR DEFENCE MEETS WITH U.S. COUNTERPART

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today met with his US counterpart, the Secretary of Defense Dr Robert Gates, to discuss key issues in the alliance relationship, most notably operations in Afghanistan.

“The meeting was very positive, reflecting the strength of our relationship with the United States,” Senator Faulkner said.

“I have reinforced to Secretary Gates that Australia is strongly committed to our mission in Afghanistan.

“Our efforts are directed to training and mentoring the Afghan National Army’s 4^th Brigade in Oruzgan province,” Senator Faulkner said.

“We will continue to work closely with our US partners and other coalition partners to create stability and security in Oruzgan province,” Senator Faulkner said.

Although Afghanistan remains a key area of focus for both the United States and Australia, other areas within the alliance relationship were also discussed.

“Secretary Gates and I had a frank discussion about several points that affect our shared security interests, including the stability of the Asia‑Pacific. We also discussed the progress of the Defence Trade Co-operation Treaty.

“I look forward to further discussions with Secretary Gates when both he and Secretary of State Clinton are welcomed to Canberra for the 2010 Australia-US Ministerial Consultation meeting,” Senator Faulkner said.

Media contacts:

Colin Campbell (John Faulkner):           02 6277 7800 or 0407 787 181

Defence Media Liaison:                         02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664