Visit to Ireland

I am visiting Dublin to advanceAustralia's trade, tourism and investment with Ireland.

My visit isthe first by an Australian Trade Minister in more than 30 years as the TurnbullGovernment works to grow Australia's trade with Europe as part of our plan fora stronger Australian economy.

The free tradeagreement Australia is negotiating with the European Union presents the chanceto strengthen our trade and investment relationship with Ireland.

Given ourshared language, common law system, values and people-to-people links, Irelandhas unique potential among EU members to be a trusted partner and bridge forAustralian companies to do business in Europe.

For the samereasons Australia, with our free trade agreements in Asia and the Pacific, canbe a landing pad for Irish investment and a launching pad into the region.

In 2017two-way trade was worth $3.5 billion. There is great potential to grow thisrelationship.

During thevisit I am meeting Irish Government ministers, including my direct counterpart,the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Ms Heather HumphreysTD.

I am alsomeeting Irish investors to promote Australia as a destination for foreigninvestment.

Growing ourtrade and investment with Ireland will help drive economic growth and createnew jobs.