Australian PM to visit Auckland later this month

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd will visit Auckland on August 19 to take part in a trans-Tasman climate change conference, Prime Minister Helen Clark said today. It will be his first visit to New Zealand as prime minister. Miss Clark went to Brisbane late last year for an informal meeting with Mr Rudd soon after the Australian general election. "Since then, ministers across a range of economic and social portfolios from both countries have also held formal and informal bilateral talks as we build on the strong links between New Zealand and Australia," Miss Clark said in a statement. Mr Rudd and Miss Clark will both speak at the climate change conference before holding talks. "Our meeting will give us the chance to review bilateral, regional and international issues, including the bilateral trade and economic... [read full story]