Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Richard Marles will visit Sri Lanka as part of a four nation South and Southeast Asia tour scheduled from 2-5 June 2025 for high-level meetings.
The Deputy Prime Minister will meet leaders and counterparts in the Maldives, Sri Lanka, India and Indonesia as part of the Government’s commitment to deepening diplomatic and defence partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, the Australian government has announced.
During his visit to Maldives and Sri Lanka, the Deputy Prime Minister will discuss ongoing Australian support for both nations’ sovereign capability development.
The visit to India coincides with the fifth anniversary of Australia and India’s Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which underpins our relationship and shared vision for the Indian Ocean.
In Indonesia, the Deputy Prime Minister will meet his counterpart to reaffirm our commitment to a peaceful, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
“Australia values our relationships with neighbours in the Indo-Pacific. Our deepening cooperation is at the heart of Australia’s approach to ensure the Indo-Pacific remains open, inclusive and resilient.”
“I look forward to meeting leaders and welcome productive discussions on how we can work together to shape a peaceful, secure, and prosperous region that is respectful of sovereignty,” the Australian Minister said of his tour.
