Foreign Minister Penny Wong hopes G20 sends ‘clear message to Russia’

Foreign Minister Penny Wong is hopeful this week’s G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Bali sends a “clear message to Russia”.

The Minister said Australia had been working with its partners towards a successful meeting on Thursday and commended Indonesia for inviting Ukraine to participate as a guest.

“As the premier forum for international economic co-operation and governance, the G20 has a vital role in ensuring food and energy security – both threatened by Russia’s illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine,” Senator Wong said in a statement on Tuesday night.

“At this critical time for international security, Australia is working with Indonesia and other partners towards a successful G20 meeting, that also sends a clear message to Russia.”

Ahead of the G20, Senator Wong will visit Singapore, Australia’s largest trade and investment partner in Southeast Asia.

Senator Wong will meet Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan as part of negotiations for the Australia-Singapore Green Economy Agreement.

The agreement aims to be instrumental in facilitating trade and investment while also supporting the countries to meet their net zero emissions goals.

“Australia’s relationship with Singapore is one of our closest and most comprehensive in the region, anchored in shared strategic and economic interests,” Ms Wong said in a statement.

The Senator will also set out the Albanese government’s vision for engagement with ASEAN and the countries of Southeast Asia in a lecture hosted by the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

She will also participate in the 21st meeting of Mexico, Indonesia, the Republic of Korea, Turkey and Australia (MIKTA) foreign ministers.

MIKTA aims to play a bridging role between developing and developed countries on global issues including Ukraine, food security and migration management.