Rudd in Pattaya next month

Grigson confirmed that Rudd and Australian ministers would attend the summit to meet with their East Asian counterparts, quashing earlier reports the Aussie PM might not be able to come.

Asked what message Rudd would bring to the meeting, Grigson said the Australian Premier would urge regional leaders to make a statement on the financial crisis because it was the most significant issue currently. It could be included in an overall statement or separately. Grigson said it would be strange if the East Asian summit didn't consider the downturn.

Thailand will host Asean Plus Three and the East Asian summit in Pattaya from April 10 to 12. National leaders are expected to share their views on the severity of the crisis and coordinated efforts to tackle the crisis, such as the pooling of regional reserves to help countries in need.