overriding goal is to achieve practical results. In pursuing practical results which make a difference to individual lives it is far better - and far more productive - to pursue cooperation based on mutual respect than merely to posture for a domestic audience. China's recent agreement to our proposal for a formal and regular bilateral dialogue on human rights is a good example of this approach. It marks a substantial and very welcome new development in our bilateral relationship with China. It should provide the framework for handling differences and pursuing concrete improvements in the observance of international human rights standards in China. During my discussions with Chinese Vice-Premier Zhu Rongji in May, we confirmed that the first meeting will be held in Beijing next month. Other significant examples of the Government's recent action on human rights in the region include: My raising of the issue of East Timor during each of my meetings with Indonesian Foreign Minister, Ali Alatas, and our recent decision to provide a further $ 300,000 to the International Committee of the Red Cross, for humanitarian work in East Timor The Government's very strong and ongoing expressions of concern over the human rights situation in Burma. Our support for the establishment of an informal Asia-Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions, and our support for a Human Rights Centre in Vietnam. I also want to say a few words about Australia's strong commitment to rid the world of anti-personnel landmines. Australia has worked actively over the