STATEMENTS ON INDULGENCE

Mr TAYLOR (Hume—Leader of the Opposition) (14:03): Prime Minister Napat, on behalf of the coalition and the federal opposition, I warmly welcome you and your delegation to our parliament. I congratulate you on the Nakamal agreement that has been signed between our two countries today, as we just heard from the Prime Minister. Of course, this agreement is the latest phase of a partnership that has been growing stronger over many years and successive governments.

The former coalition government was proud to enhance Australia's relationship with our Pacific family under our Pacific Step-up agenda. Under the coalition, Australia made vital historic investments in the telecommunications and digital infrastructure of our region. Such steps to practically improve and protect the self-determination of our Pacific family will always be the focus of our coalition.

In this world of geopolitical and other disruptions, the Pacific family must stand together, as we heard a moment ago from the Prime Minister. This is why my colleague the member for Fairfax and shadow minister for foreign affairs, Ted O'Brien, announced last week the coalition's support for a regional security pact for the Pacific that is designed by the Pacific.

Prime Minister Napat, we do live in dangerous times, where authoritarian powers seek to coerce and control while using both carrots and sticks, and for countries like ours enhancing our partnership sends a strong message about the importance we place on sovereignty, collective security and the solidarity of our fellow democracies. You and your delegation are most welcome guests in our country.

Thank you for visiting us.