Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will discuss bilateral cooperation in high-tech industries, including space and nuclear power, during his one-day working visit to Australia on Tuesday.

The visit marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. "Moscow regards Australia as an important and prospective partner in the fast-developing Asia-Pacific region," the Russian Foreign Ministry said.

During the visit, Lavrov will meet with Australian Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd, Defense Minister Stephen Smith, as well as with a host of businessmen and members of Russian community in Australia.

The talks with Australian officials will focus on bilateral cooperation in nuclear power, space and mining industries, information technologies and agriculture, the ministry said.

Russia and Australia signed a peaceful nuclear cooperation agreement in September 2007. Australia, the global leader in uranium production, agreed to supply fuel to Russia for conversion and use in its nuclear reactors.