Howard To Visit United States In September

In another indication of a November-December election, the Prime Minister, John Howard, is to visit the United States in September, as part of the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the ANZUS Treaty.

ANZUS has been the cornerstone of Australian foreign policy since 1951. New Zealand's involvement in the alliance is now severely reduced.

In a statement released today, Howard said:

"I will visit Washington and meet the President of the United States on 10 September 2001.

"My visit will be particularly significant as it coincides with the 50th Anniversary of the ANZUS security alliance between Australia and the United States. The President and I will be reaffirming the strength and the relevance of the alliance, which underpins the very close and very broad security relationship between our two countries.

"My discussions with President Bush and other senior Administration officials, Members of Congress and business leaders will be wide-ranging. We will be exchanging views on a range of major political and security concerns, and on ways to enhance our economic and trade relations.

"I look forward to the visit and the opportunity it will provide to forge closer personal links with the new US Administration and Congress, and to further strengthen Australian-American ties."