A printer-friendly version of this document is available. I have today announced the appointment of Mr John McCarthy, AO, as Australian Ambassador to Japan. Mr McCarthy will replace Mr Peter Grey who has been Ambassador since March 1998. He is expected to take up his appointment in June 2001.
Japan is one of Australia s most important bilateral partners.
We share many economic and strategic interests, especially in the Asia Pacific region. Mr McCarthy takes up his position at an exciting time in the relationship. The Conference is an initiative of Prime Minister Howard and the late Prime Minister Obuchi, and will bring together leaders from the business, media, academic and other areas. This event, combined with regular Ministerial exchanges and the Strengthening Economic Relations studies currently being undertaken by our two governments, will generate opportunities to deepen our already strong ties. Mr McCarthy recently completed his posting as Australia s Ambassador to Indonesia, a position he had held since February 1997.