Jonathan arrives in Australia for Commonwealth leaders' meeting

Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan

Jonathan arrives in Australia for Commonwealth leaders' meeting
Uche Aneke, Abuja

The Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan, has arrived Perth, Australia, on an 8-days state visit, during which he will participate in the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, CHOGM-2011.

A statement by the President’s spokesman, Dr Reuben Abati said the Nigerian leader will be a guest of the Australian Government and hold bilateral talks with the Australian Prime Minister, Hon. (Ms) Julia Gillard, who will also host him to dinner.

Another official dinner scheduled with top Australian businessmen will be hosted by the Governor-General, Hon. (Ms) Quentin Bryce AC.

Global business leaders

Apart from delivering the keynote address at the Commonwealth Business Forum, with the theme: “Unleashing Africa’s Potentials: A New Vision", President Jonathan will take part in the Forum’s other activities, including a panel discussion on: “Africa: Creating A New Economic Power for the 21st Century”, as well as the Presidential Country Roundtables, specifically the Nigeria/Australia Mining Roundtable and other consultations with global business leaders.

The CHOGM-2011 opens on Friday, October 28, with an executive session slated to commence immediately after the opening formalities.

In the evening of the same day, Queen Elizabeth the Second will host a dinner for all participating Commonwealth leaders and their spouses.

Bilateral talks

While in Australia, President Jonathan will also hold bilateral talks with several Commonwealth leaders, including the Prime Minister of Malaysia, the Vice President of India, the Prime Minister of Canada, the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, and the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs, in addition to a meeting with some members of the Nigerian Community living in Australia.

Other major events include a sports breakfast, a reception by the Commonwealth Secretary-General, a global polio eradication session and a retreat sessions for Commonwealth leaders.


The President is expected to return to Abuja, Nigeria, on Monday, October 31, 2011.

Uche Iheanacho (with agency reports)
Edited by Hajia Sani