NATO Leaders' Summit

The Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Marise Payne will represent the Prime Minister, the Hon Malcolm Turnbull MP, at the NATO Leaders’ Summit from 11 to 12 July in Belgium.
 
During the Summit Minister Payne will attend the Resolute Support Session to meet with leaders of NATO member states and partner countries to discuss Australia’s ongoing contribution to Afghanistan’s security.
 
“Australia continues to make a significant contribution to the NATO-led Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan and we are the second largest contributor to the Afghan National Army Trust Fund,” Minister Payne said.
 
“It is a national and regional security priority that we remain engaged in Afghanistan to help the Afghan Government contain the threat of terrorism and support the development of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces.”
 
Minister Payne said Australia is an Enhanced Opportunity Partner of NATO and our relationship is reflective of our shared values and our steadfast commitment to global stability and security.
 
“The NATO Leaders’ Summit is also an important opportunity to share Australia’s unique perspective on security challenges in Southeast Asia, including the threat of terrorism,” Minister Payne said.
 
While in Brussels Minister Payne will also meet with Supreme Allied Commander Europe General Curtis Scaparrotti, as well as NATO leadership.