Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Social Services) Share this | Hansard source

The government deeply values Australia's close and enduring friendship with Japan, based on our shared values and a commitment to peace, prosperity and the rule of law. We warmly welcome Prime Minister Abe, his wife and delegation to Australia. As the Prime Minister stated this morning, our two countries have forged one of the world's firmest friendships and most practical partnerships. The signing of the Japan-Australia Economic Partnership Agreement will lift this relationship to an even higher level.

The government's position on the matters raised in the Greens' motion is well known. Raising this issue today is nothing more than a stunt. In moving this motion, the Greens have, once again, shown disrespect for a visiting head of government. That is why the government have denied formality.