NO.081

TREASURER TO VISIT ISRAEL AND THE PALESTINIAN AUTHORITIES EN ROUTE TO IMF

AND WORLD BANK ANNUAL MEETINGS IN DUBAI

The Treasurer will attend the Annual Meetings of the Board of Governors

of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank and associated

meetings that will be held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates from 20 to

24 September 2003.

These meetings will provide an opportunity to discuss the economic outlook

and policy responses to the risks to the global economy. Discussion will

also focus on progress in the IMF and among its members to develop measures

for preventing and resolving financial crises. The meetings will provide

an opportunity for members to consider how low income countries can best

achieve their development objectives and to increase their voice and

participation within the IMF and World Bank. Consideration will be given

to the most effective means for industrialised countries to assist developing

countries achieve their goals.

En route to Dubai, from 16 to 19 September the Treasurer will visit Israel

and the Palestinian Authorities where he will meet with senior government

officials to discuss bilateral economic relationships, the peace process

and terrorism and security issues more generally. The Treasurer will

also address the Israel-Australia Chamber of Commerce.

CANBERRA

11 September 2003

Contact: David Alexander

02 6277 7340