VISIT TO RUSSIA

29 April 2005

The Governor General has accepted an invitation from the President of the Russian Federation, His Excellency Mr Vladimir Putin to represent Australia in Moscow next month at celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe.

The events in Moscow on 9 May are an important opportunity to join other world leaders in honouring the courage of the millions who fought and gave their lives in the defence of freedom.

During his visit the Governor-General will also open Australia Week in Moscow, the biggest trade and cultural exhibition Australia has staged in Russia. Organised by Austrade, it is designed to bring business leaders from both countries together in a forum where they can meet and promote their goods and services.

Russia is one of the fastest growing emerging markets in the world, achieving its sixth successive year of GDP growth in 2004. In 2005 the official GDP growth forecast is 5.8 per cent.

More than 30 Australian exporters have already confirmed their participation in the event to run from 10 to 15 May.

Whilst the resources sector continues to grow rapidly, there is a shift towards high value-added products in fields such as food and wine, tourism, information technology, professional services, and education.

Australia Week in Moscow follows immediately after major national holidays in Russia to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II. It also coincides with a European Union summit in Moscow that will renew international focus on Russia’s booming economy.