PREMIER THANKS PM FOR CAIRNS PACIFIC FORUM VENUE

CAIRNS: Premier Anna Bligh today thanked Prime Minister Kevin Rudd for choosing Cairns as the venue for August’s annual Pacific Islands Forum.

“This is a significant victory for Queensland,” said the Premier in Cairns this afternoon.

The Prime Minister announced Cairns success in Port Moresby yesterday.

“I wrote to the Prime Minister last year strongly supporting Queensland as the host State.

“It will be attended by leaders from 16 South Pacific nations, and there will be post-forum dialogue with China, Japan, the European Union, the Commonwealth and the United States.

“The Forum will be an excellent chance to further expand Queensland’s already extensive political, economic and social relations with the nations of our region.

“Cairns is a proven and ideal location for such a significant event.

“We brought State Parliament here for a sitting week in October last year and the facilities and warm welcome were first-class.

“Well done Cairns,” said Ms Bligh.

Member for Cairns, Tourism Minister Desley Boyle said the Forum would be a major boost for Queensland and the Far North Queensland economy.

“This is one of the great destinations of the region and indeed the world. Caierns will do Australia proud,” she said.

Media contact: Premier’s Office 3224 4500