Saudi nationals wishing to apply for a tourist visa to Australia will now be able to receive it within 48 hours, Australian Minister of Trade and Investment Andrew Robb said Monday.

In a letter addressed to the Council of Saudi Chambers (CSC), the minister also expressed his keenness to work with the departments concerned in the Kingdom to facilitate the issuance of Saudi visas for visiting Australian businessmen. He said the move would promote trade and investment between the two countries.

“We support the resumption of free trade negotiations with the Gulf states,” the minister added.

The Australian minister expressed his appreciation to the council for hosting him and the accompanying delegation in April, indicating that the visit yielded fruitful discussions between the two sides.

Robb said that the formation of the Saudi-Australian Business Council reflects the shared commitment of both countries to boost trade relations and push them forward.



He lauded the vital role played by CSC in this regard.

He also referred to the investment opportunities and complementarities of the two countries in food and agriculture, energy, investment, education and tourism, while stressing his commitment to increase trade growth opportunities.

Robb stressed that Australia is open to business and is keen to encourage more investments from Saudi companies and sovereign funds, especially in infrastructure.