20 Feb 2006

New Zealand foreign minister hosts Australian counterpart this week

2:09 pm on 20 February 2006

New Zealand's foreign minister, Winston Peters, is to host his Australian counterpart, Alexander Downer this week for their six monthly consultations.

Mr Peters says the discussions are an important opportunity to address key aspects of the bilateral relationship, as well as regional and global issues of concern to both countries.

He says they will discuss a range of issues, including our deepening engagement with Asia, developments in counter terrorism, and our ongoing joint efforts to support good governance and stability in the Pacific.

Mr Downer arrives on Thursday and will leave the following day.