View Header

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary


For Immediate Release September 19, 1996

STATEMENT BY THE PRESS SECRETARY

                     President's Trip to Australia,
                  The Philippines (APEC) and Thailand

The President will attend the meeting of APEC Economic Leaders which will be hosted by President Ramos of The Philippines at Subic Bay on November 24-25. The President will open his travel to the Asia Pacific region with a visit to Australia November 19-23 in advance of the APEC events. After Manila, he will pay a State visit to Thailand on November 26.

During the official visit to Australia, the President will meet with Prime Minister John Howard to discuss a range of bilateral and regional issues. This will be the first opportunity for the President to meet the new Australian leader and discuss the full range of U.S.-Australian relations including the alliance, enhancing cooperation on trade and investment issues and the opportunities and challenges for both countries in the Asia Pacific region. The President is expected to address the Australian Parliament and visit areas outside of Canberra, including Sydney and Cairns.

The annual APEC economic leaders meeting will focus on the contributions APEC can make to continued regional economic integration and trade liberalization. Leaders will review progress on implementing the Osaka action plan and discuss specific steps for greater coordination on regional development projects, ranging from infrastructure needs to the environment. The President welcomes this opportunity to renew his acquaintance with the other 17 leaders of the Asia Pacific region.

The President will be the guest of His Majesty King Bhumipol Adulyadej during the visit to Thailand. The Kingdom of Thailand is celebrating the 50th anniversary of His Majesty's accession to the throne. The President also will meet with the Prime Minister to discuss bilateral issues, including our security alliance and cooperation on economic issues.

# # #