Mr Smith will replace Mr Michael Lightowler, AM, who has been Ambassador since August 1991. Mr Lightowler has made a significant contribution to the promotion of Australia's bilateral and multilateral interests during a challenging period of change in China. Senator Evans said Mr Smith's appointment reflects the high priority we give to our relationship with China. China is an increasingly important player in world affairs, especially in the Asian region. Australia's bilateral relationship includes high level exchanges on a range of foreign policy and trade interests.
China is our sixth largest trading partner, and there is extensive investment in both directions.
Mr Smith's accreditation to Mongolia reflects Australia's interest in expanding this relationship following political and economic reform in Mongolia. He has served in Australian missions in New Delhi, Tel Aviv and Manila, and as Consul-General in Honolulu. From 1989 to 1992, Mr Smith was First Assistant Secretary, Pacific, Africa and Middle East Division. In 1992, Mr Smith was appointed a Deputy Secretary of the Department. Since April 1994, he has served on secondment to the Department of Defence as Deputy Secretary.