Former Australian treasurer Joe Hockey has been confirmed as the next ambassador to the US, it was announced here on Tuesday.
"Today I announce the appointment of Joseph Hockey as Australia's next Ambassador to the US," Xinhua quoted Foreign Minister Julie Bishop as saying.
Set to take over from the outgoing Kim Beazley in January, the decision was made after weeks of speculation that Hockey would be given the job, Bishop said.
"Our alliance with the US is the bedrock of foreign and defence policy and we are working closely together on shared regional and global security, strategic and economic interests," she said.
Bishop said Hockey's background in government, and experience in the fields of law and banking make him perfect fit for the dynamic role with one of Australia's closest trading partners.
Hockey, 50, announced his retirement from politics following his removal from the treasurer's position when Malcolm Turnbull ousted former Prime Minister Tony Abbott.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app