Asia Foundation Hosts Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop for Innovation Talk

On October 9, Asia Foundation President Arnold hosted Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop, along with Australian Ambassador to the U.S. Kim Beazley, and former U.S. Ambassador to Australia Jeffrey Bleich at the iconic Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco. Minister Bishop oversees Australia’s foreign policy and international development. Less than one month ago she was re-elected Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party as Malcolm Turnbull was sworn in as the 29th Prime Minster of Australia. Minister Bishop is driving an innovation agenda across her portfolio, including launching the InnovationXchange. “The Asia Foundation understands the crucial role that innovation can play in international development,” enthused Minister Bishop as she detailed Australia’s and the Foundation’s close, decade-long partnership. She continued: “The Asia Foundation has been helping to push the boundaries of aid policy and practice throughout our region.” Watch slideshow.