Spotlight on Australia-US relations in Asia-Pacific Century

Australia’s economic ties with the United States were in focus last night at a public lecture by United States Embassy Counselor for Economic Affairs Matt Murray.

Hosted by The University of Queensland School of Economics, the lecture focused on the state of US-Australian economic relations in the Asia-Pacific century.

“US economic engagement in the Asia-Pacific region will be vital for our nation’s long-term prosperity, and the United States and Australia have a strong shared interest in the economic opportunities available in the region,” Mr Murray said.

He said a shared interest wouldl offer “significant future commercial opportunities” for both countries, resulting from a long and enduring bilateral economic partnership.

“US businesses are making many positive contributions in Australia's economy and, at the same time, Australian firms are helping advance America's prosperity,” he said.

UQ School of Economics Head Professor Flavio Menezes said he was delighted to host Mr Murray’s lecture.

“Public lectures such as this one by Counselor Murray are an important part of the School’s ongoing commitment towards nurturing the next generation of leading economics researchers,” Professor Menezes said.

Mr Murray joined the US Embassy in Canberra as Counselor for Economic Affairs in 2013.

He has earned three Superior Honor Awards and several Meritorious Honor Awards from the US Department of State. 

Media: Sarah Brischetto on s.brischetto@uq.edu.au