Penny Wong, Australia’s new Foreign Affairs Minister. (Photo: Brenton Edwards)

Shortly after being sworn in as Foreign Affairs Minister in Canberra on Monday, Wong recorded a video message saying she has become Foreign Affairs Minister with the region facing unprecedented challenges, which Australians will face together.

Wong said Australia will increase assistance to support the region’s climate change response and pandemic recovery, and will strengthen defense and maritime cooperation. She cited plans to work with the Pacific family to expand opportunities for Pacific workers in Australia and improve their working conditions.

She said she looks forward to visiting the Pacific islands soon and wants to help build a stronger Pacific family.