D16/2002
23 September 2002
Representatives from 21 Asia-Pacific nations will gather in Brisbane this week to advance the economic development of the region.
The APEC Transportation Working Group Forum, hosted by the Commonwealth Department of Transport and Regional Services brings together over 200 international transport officials to increase the efficiency of the regional transportation system that is so important to our trade.
Head of the Australian delegation and host, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Transport and Regional Services, Peter Yuile, said that the Forum would advance regional transport and trade liberalisation and provide an opportunity for Australia to demonstrate our expertise.
"Australia is an active player in the APEC Transportation Working Group. We are absolutely committed to ensuring the strength and sustainability of the Asia-Pacific region," Mr Yuile said.
Australia will take a lead role in discussions that cover:
- electronic commerce;
- trade facilitation;
- Intelligent Transport Systems; and
- human resource development.
The Department of Transport and Regional Services will provide reports on a range of Australian led APEC transport projects including paperless trading and freight container tracking technology.
The Opening Plenary session of the APEC Transportation Working Group Forum will include a welcome to Brisbane from Lord Mayor Jim Soorley, opening remarks from Mr Yuile, and welcoming remarks from Mr Lamberto Pia, Lead Shepherd APEC Transportation Working Group.
"This meeting provides Australia with another opportunity to showcase our world class facilities," Mr Yuile said.
The meeting will also include visits to the Port of Brisbane and the control centre for the Streams Traffic Management system.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY:
Media are invited to film/photograph the Opening Plenary Session of the Forum
Date: Tuesday 24th September 2002
Time: 9am - 10am
Location: Ballroom North (entry from Ann Street Lobby)
Sheraton Brisbane Hotel & Towers, 249 Turbot Street, Brisbane
Media Contact:
Craig Stone, Department of Transport and Regional Services (02) 6274 8013
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