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2007 Public Affairs Programs
Ambassador McCallum comments on Prime Minister-elect Kevin Rudd and the new Labor Government
Canberra — 30 November 2007
Ambassador McCallum recently emphasized the enduring nature of the U.S.–Australian alliance on two ABC radio programs. On Wednesday, November 28, Ambassador McCallum made remarks to ABC Radio’s ‘AM’ program prior to the American-Australian Association’s dinner in honor of retiring BHP Billiton CEO Chip Goodyear. On Thursday, November 29, Ambassador McCallum spoke with Kate O’Toole of Triple J’s current affairs program “Hack.”
Ambassador McCallum Congratulates Mr. Rudd and Thanks Mr. Howard
25 November 2007
Statement by U.S. Ambassador Robert D. McCallum
Issued: November 25, 2007 at 12:00 noon
I warmly congratulate Mr. Rudd and the Australian Labor Party on a hard fought victory. The United States looks forward to continuing with his new government the close partnership with Australia that has characterized the relationship between our two countries since World War II. That partnership was begun under Labor Prime Minister John Curtin based upon common national interests and shared democratic values which continue to this very day. This extraordinary relationship has existed and flourished regardless of which party held office in Washington or Canberra. Though officials in government have changed, our countries have worked together to defend against common dangers and to advance the interests of both our nations, as well as those of the Asia/Pacific region. We will continue to do so in the future.
I also congratulate Prime Minister Howard for his years of leadership of this great nation. The relationship between our two countries has deepened and broadened during his years as Prime Minister, and America is grateful for his wise counsel and Australia’s active participation in issues affecting our two countries, especially those relating to the Asia/Pacific region. Australians can be proud of the positive and constructive role which Australia has played in the global community of nations during his time as Prime Minister.
The bonds forged by our Alliance and common cause endure. I again congratulate Mr. Rudd and the Labor Party, and the United States looks forward to maintaining and enhancing the partnership that has served both our countries so well for so long.
Embassy Commemorates 6th Anniversary of 9/11
Canberra — 11 September 2007
Ambassador and Mrs. McCallum and the Embassy community were joined today by Deputy Prime Minister Mark Vaile in marking the sixth anniversary of the attacks of September 11, 2001. A moment of silence recognized the nearly 3,000 individuals, including 10 Australians, who died on that day. Ambassador McCallum acknowledged that “besides remembering the victims and honoring the survivors of September 11, we gather today to express our opposition to the voices of fanatical hatred and intolerance around the world, and to reaffirm our commitment to the values of individual freedom, diversity, equality, and liberty.” Also on hand to commemorate the day were representatives from Australia’s first responder services and Canberra’s religious community.
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Mission Enhances U.S.–Australia Bilateral Web Resource
Canberra — 30 August 2007
The U.S. Mission to Australia is proud to announce the release of a newly-updated compendium of documents relating to the bilateral relationship between the United States and Australia. This archive features articles from both sides of the Pacific from 2001, including AUSMIN communiqués dating back to 1998, and aims to highlight the special relationship shared between our two countries. The resource has been completely reorganized and will continue to be updated by the Mission’s Information Resource Center as more documents become available.
New Collaboration in Counter Terrorism
Canberra — 24 August 2007
Ambassador McCallum and Deputy Secretary Michael Pezzullo congratulate Daniel Boettcher on his upcoming year in the United States to participate in Georgetown University’s Homeland Security program. A joint effort between the U.S. Embassy and the Australian Department of Defense, Mr. Boettcher will be the first of five Australian Defense employees to participate in this program. While in the United States Mr. Boettcher will participate in a variety of Department of State and Department of Defense programs designed to promote enhanced cooperation in the areas of counter terrorism and homeland security.
U.S. and Australia Partner for New Science and Technology Exhibition
Canberra — 15 August 2007
The Australian Prime Minister, John Howard and U.S. Ambassador, Robert McCallum and Mrs. McCallum celebrated the successful public-private partnership between Raytheon and Questacon. The partnership between one of America’s technology leading companies and Australia’s National Science and Technology Center resulted in a new hands-on science exhibition titled “The Imagination Factory — Invent and Play.” The exhibition is designed to promote student interest in the areas of science and technology. Ambassador McCallum applauded the partnership and congratulated 15 year old Canberra Girls Grammar student Shanee Conran for her idea and initiative that resulted in a collaboration worth more than one million dollars. Prime Minister Howard took advantage of the occasion to publicly express his appreciation to the United States for their continued friendship and goodwill.
Ambassador McCallum Welcomes Boston City Singers
Canberra — 10 August 2007
Ambassador McCallum and Mrs. Mimi McCallum welcomed the Boston City Singers today at the U.S. Embassy. The youths performed a song for the Ambassador and Mrs. McCallum, and the Ambassador thanked them for serving as cultural ambassadors for the United States. While in Canberra, the young Americans performed at Old Parliament House with the Woden Valley Youth Choir. They will perform with other youth choirs during the tour, including the Sydney Children’s Choir and the Young Voices of Melbourne.
Ambassador McCallum Speaks at the 2007 Banksia Gala Honoring Governor Schwarzenegger
Sydney — 20 July 2007
Ambassador McCallum delivers remarks during the 2007 Banksia Environmental Foundation Awards Gala, honoring California Governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger as this year’s recipient of the International Environmentalist Award.
Web Chat with Ambassador McCallum on Climate Change
3:30pm to 4:30pm — 20 June 2007
The webchat with Ambassador Robert D. McCallum, Jr. about Climate Change has now finished. A transcript is now available of the event.
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice to Host Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Alexander Downer, MP in California, May 23-24, 2007
Washington, D.C. — 15 May 2007
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will host Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Alexander Downer, MP, in California on May 23-24, 2007.
On May 23, the Secretary and Foreign Minister will visit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Library and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.
On May 24, the Secretary and Foreign Minister will visit the San Francisco Bay Area to participate in events highlighting the innovation and technology of “Silicon Valley.”
Consultations on Coordination by Core Partners in the Pacific Region: Chairman’s Statement
Washington, D.C. — 10 May 2007
Representatives from the United States, Australia, China, France, Germany, India, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, United Kingdom, and the European Union (Core Partners) met in Washington, D.C. on May 8-9, 2007 to discuss assistance programs and coordinate their efforts to promote socio-economic development, the rule of law, and good governance in the Pacific region. The meeting was chaired by the United States and expanded on earlier discussions among Core Partners at the October 2006 Post Forum Dialogue in Nadi, Fiji. The United Nations participated in the meeting as an observer. The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community attended at the invitation of the Core Partners to assist in facilitating the meeting.
President Bush’s Statement on Open Economies
Washington, D.C. — 10 May 2007
The United States has a longstanding commitment to open economies that empower individuals, generate economic opportunity and prosperity for all, and provide the foundation for a free society. Economic freedom, supported by the rule of law, reinforces political freedom by encouraging and supporting the free flow of ideas. To continue the advance of liberty and prosperity, my Administration will work vigorously to promote open investment policies and free trade on a level playing field.
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Secretary Kempthorne Thanks Australian Firefighters for Assistance in Battling U.S. Wildfires
Canberra — 4 May 2007
Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne today in Canberra, Australia, met and personally thanked Australian firefighters who recently traveled to the United States to assist U.S. firefighters in battling wildland fires in the West. Kempthorne, joined by U.S. Ambassador Robert McCallum, expressed appreciation to Neil Cooper, Hilton Taylor and David Ingram during a meeting at the Ambassador’s Residence at the U.S. Embassy in the Australian capital city.
Message from the President of the United States on the 65th Anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea
Washington, D.C. — 2 May 2007
Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne, as the leader of the Presidential Delegation to Australia, delivered the statement from U.S. President George W. Bush:
I send greetings to those observing the 65th anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea.
Sixty-five years ago, the world witnessed the first strategic defeat of the Japanese Imperial Navy during World War II at the Battle of the Coral Sea. The American and Australian sailors and airmen in this battle fought valiantly, and their efforts helped preserve the freedoms we enjoy today. As we observe this anniversary, we pledge to always remember these veterans’ heroic accomplishments, and we pay tribute to their commitment to freedom’s cause. Their service delivered a great victory and ultimately helped transform Japanese adversaries into friends.
In this new century, as we wage the war on terror and work to extend peace and freedom around the world, we appreciate the contributions of our Australian allies. The men and women of our militaries follow in the footsteps of our World War II veterans and uphold the noble tradition of answering history’s call with honor, decency, and resolve. I salute the service members from the Battle of the Coral Sea for your commitment to duty and for your courage in the face of danger. Your selfless dedication exemplifies the finest qualities of humanity.
Laura and I send our best wishes. May God bless you.
Presidential Delegation Announced for the 65th Coral Sea Anniversary
Washington, D.C. — 27 April 2007
President George W. Bush today announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to the Commonwealth of Australia to attend the 65th Anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea from May 3, 2007 until May 5, 2007.
The Honorable Dirk Kempthorne, Secretary of the Interior, will lead the delegation.
Members of the Presidential Delegation:
- The Honorable Robert D. McCallum, Jr., United States Ambassador to Australia
- Rear Admiral James D. Kelly, USN, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Japan
Ambassador McCallum’s Response to the Virginia Tech Tragedy
Canberra — 17 April 2007
On behalf of the American community in Australia, and the people of the United States, I want to express deep gratitude for the outpouring of sympathy from the Australian people in the wake of the tragic incident at Virginia Tech this week. Your warm condolences are a comfort in a time of great sadness for my nation. Thank you.
Consular Web Chat
3:00pm to 4:00pm — 17 April 2007
Thank you to everyone who participated in the web chat! You can read a transcript of the chat if you missed it.
If you had a question that was not answered in the chat, please send Non-Immigrant Visa questions to AmVisa@state.gov and your Immigrant Visa questions to SydneyIV@state.gov.
Solomon Islands: Early Morning Earthquake and Tsunami
Washington, D.C. — 3 April 2007
The United States offers its condolences to the people and government of the Solomon Islands on the tragic loss of life and the homelessness caused by the April 2 earthquake and resulting tsunami.
Our Ambassador to the Solomon Islands has spoken with Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare and Foreign Minister Patteson Oti to express our sympathy and to offer U.S. assistance.
The United States has released $250,000 in disaster assistance funds to support immediate relief needs in the Solomon Islands. These funds will support humanitarian assistance organizations addressing shelter, health, water, and sanitation needs in the affected area.
More information
U.S. Welcomes Australian Forest and Climate Initiative
Washington, D.C. — 29 March 2007
The United States welcomes the announcement today by the Government of Australia regarding the establishment of a new Global Initiative on Forests and Climate. This ambitious initiative presents an important opportunity to help save the world's forests and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Australia will engage key countries and international organizations in the initiative to support new forest planting, limit destruction of the world's remaining forests, and promote sustainable forest management.
Dream Masons Premiere Webcast and Podcast
Hobart — 23 March 2007
Dream Masons devised and directed by Chicago based Jim Lasko of Red Moon Theatre and presented by the Salamanca Arts Centre is one of the opening performances of Tasmania’s Ten Days on the Island Festival. Drawing on water mythology unique to Tasmania, Dream Masons transforms the historic façade of the Salamanca Arts Centre into a spectacular backdrop to this bold and unique theatrical event.
The premiere can be watched live via webcast from 9:30pm local time tonight and will also be available as a download.
Dream Masons is proudly supported by U.S. Embassy and Melbourne Consulate General.
Ambassador McCallum Speaks at the Sydney Institute
Sydney — 7 March 2007
On March 7th, Ambassador McCallum delivered a speech at the Sydney Institute to an audience of more than 130 guests and journalists. The speech focused on the upcoming military commissions, the anniversary of the bombing of Darwin, and the U.S.–Australia Free Trade Agreement.
More information
Celebrating Friendship Through Country Music
Canberra — 4 March 2007
The U.S. Embassy in partnership with Australia’s National Capital Authority hosted an evening of free entertainment that celebrated America’s and Australia’s common ties to country music. The evening was opened by local artist and contemporary country entertainer, Elkie Stuart. Mistin Summers, an American-Australian sensation then revved up the crowd with her newly released single before Austin Texas country music star Bonnie Bishop and her band took the stage. As the MC and local radio personality Jeff Garner stated, the evening was really a celebration of America’s and Australia’s friendship.
More information
Ambassador McCallum and U.S. Embassy Staff Help With Clean Up Australia Day
Canberra — 2 March 2007
Ambassador and Mrs. McCallum along with members of the U.S. Embassy staff worked on March 2nd to help clean up the area surrounding Surveyor Park and State Circle as part of Clean Up Australia Day. The Embassy was able to fill more than 35 bags with litter in less than two hours for the initiative. The Embassy partnered with the National Capital Authority and Conservation Volunteers Australia to organize and facilitate the cleanup.
The United States and Australia Secure Tsunami Partnership
Melbourne — 23 February 2007
On Friday February 23, in Melbourne, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology and the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) officially signed an agreement to promote cooperative technical partnerships in Tsunami Early Warning Systems. As part of this effort, NOAA and the Bureau expect to launch a new Deep-ocean Assessment and Reporting of Tsunamis (DART™) buoy station in April to further strengthen the Indian Ocean region’s capacity for tsunami warning.
“NOAA is pleased to have the Bureau as a partner in the Indian and South West Pacific basins to assist in providing part of a global tsunami warning capability,” said USAF retired Brigadier General John “Jack” Kelly, NOAA deputy undersecretary for oceans and atmosphere. “We expect that Australia and the United States will continue to work together to maintain a robust operational tsunami warning system throughout this region.”
Vice President Cheney in Australia
Sydney — 22 to 25 February 2007
U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney visited Australia from February 22-25, 2007. The Vice President met with Prime Minister Howard, Opposition Leader Kevin Rudd, and other Australian government officials; spoke before the Australian-American Leadership Dialogue; met with Australian Defense Force personnel at the Victoria Barracks, and toured Sydney Harbour.
Follow the links below for transcripts of the Vice President’s remarks and interviews in Sydney:
- 24 February 2007: Vice President’s Remarks with Australian Prime Minister John Howard
- 23 February 2007: Interview of the Vice President by Greg Sheridan, the Australian
- 23 February 2007: Vice President’s Remarks with Australian Minister of Defense Brendan Nelson with Australian Defence Force Personnel
- 23 February 2007: Interview of the Vice President by Jonathan Karl, ABC News
- 23 February 2007: Vice President’s Remarks at a Breakfast Meeting of the Australian-American Leadership Dialogue
- 23 February 2007: Vice President Remarks to the Australian-American Leadership Dialogue
Ambassador McCallum Speaks at the National Press Club
Canberra — 14 February 2007
Ambassador McCallum addressed the National Press Club in Canberra with a speech titled Australia and the U.S.: Partners in Promoting Economic Prosperity and Combating Terrorism. The event was televised live on the ABC.
More information
Ambassador McCallum Welcomes U.S. Firefighters in Melbourne
Melbourne — 23 January 2007
U.S. Ambassador Robert D. McCallum, Jr. and U.S. Consul General Earl M. Irving welcomed the newly arrived U.S. firefighters to Melbourne at a dinner hosted by the Country Fire Authority and the Department of Sustainability and Environment on January 23.
Ambassador McCallum said, “We are very proud that American firefighters will be supporting their Australian colleagues in the fight to contain record bush fires in Victoria. Their arrival to support Australian firefighting efforts reflects a common thread that runs through virtually every aspect of the relationship between Australia and the United States — and that is Australians and Americans stand together.”
108 U.S. fire personnel, ranging from high level incident management teams to ground crews, are in Australia to assist Victorian authorities suppress bushfires that have been burning since the beginning of December. New Zealand and Canadian crews have also lent assistance.
This is the second time under the Wildfire Arrangement that the State of Victoria has requested assistance from U.S. firefighters.
Thirty-six U.S. firefighters assisted Victoria in 2003. In 2006, 120 Australian and New Zealand fire fighters assisted U.S. efforts to suppress fires throughout the United States. The U.S.. firefighters will be in Victoria for approximately 30 days working under the direction of Victoria’s emergency services authorities.
Last update: Monday, 20 October 2008 GMT+1000
