The Pacific Islands region is a unique part of Australia's neighbourhood and we intend to give the region the recognition it deserves. The need for this recognition was a key factor in my determination to have the Minister for Foreign Affairs, rather than a junior Minister, represent Australia in the region and that responsibility during the Government's second term. annual trip to the region in order to exchange views with Pacific island leaders. On this trip I have been able to develop further Australia's understanding of the issues confronting the region through engagement with leaders in Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Tuvalu and Fiji. This year I have also had the privilege of representing Prime Minister Howard at the Forum Leaders' Meeting in the Federated States of Micronesia.