1 November 1995
The meeting was co-chaired by Senator McMullan and the Kuwaiti Minister for Commerce and Industry, HE Mr Hilal Mushari Al-Mutairi.
Senator McMullan said there were several concrete outcomes which should assist the growth of new business opportunities in both countries and the promotion of Australian trade to Kuwait.
"Australia's position as a key supplier of traditional commodities to the Kuwait market was confirmed at the meeting, but important developments for other sectors were also raised," Senator McMullan said.
"A cooperative framework was agreed between the Department of Employment, Education and Training and the Kuwaiti Ministry for Higher Education which will see an increase in the number of Kuwaiti students studying at Australian universities and technical colleges from next year.
"Australia and Kuwait will also commence Air Services negotiations by December with the possible conclusion of an agreement in 1996.
"Tourism links between the two countries will be expanded through a tourism marketing strategy for the Gulf region to be developed by Australia by early 1996.
"This will be enhanced by new visa issuing arrangements for Kuwait which will enable Kuwaitis to access visas for Australia within 24 hours from 11 outlets in Kuwait.
"To further the interests of the private sector, an Australian commercial and investment mission will visit Kuwait in 1996, with a return Kuwaiti mission to Australia in 1997.
"The mission will build on contacts made at this week's meeting, particularly in the environmental management, high technology, services, and value-added agriculture sectors."
Further information: John Flannery, (06) 277 7420