PM Lee to visit Melbourne for Singapore-Australia Annual Leaders’ Meeting, ASEAN special summit

“The summit will reaffirm the longstanding and substantive relations between ASEAN and Australia, and discuss ways to deepen and expand cooperation, especially in the green and digital economies,” said PMO.

“The leaders will exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual concern, and on how to continue working with Australia in building an open, inclusive, and stable region.”

Mr Albanese said building Australia’s links with Southeast Asia is “a priority” for his government.

“Australia sees ASEAN at the centre of a stable, peaceful, and prosperous region. Strengthening our relationship ensures our shared future prosperity and security,” he said, adding that he looked forward to welcoming his counterparts.

Mr Lee will be accompanied by Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, as well as officials from PMO and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During Mr Lee’s absence, Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will be Acting Prime Minister.