MEDIA RELEASE No: 2003-06 Date: 2 June 2003 Embargo: For Immediate Release

ASIAN BOND FUND

The EMEAP group of central banks and monetary authorities in the East Asia/Pacific region, together with the Bank for International Settlements, today announced the launch of the Asian Bond Fund. Further information on the Fund is contained in the attached EMEAP Press Statement.

The Reserve Bank of Australia will subscribe an initial amount of US$50 million to the Fund.

Enquiries:
Manager, Media Office
Information Department
Reserve Bank of Australia
SYDNEY

Phone: +61 2 9551 9720
Fax:     +61 2 9551 8033
E-mail:  rbainfo@rba.gov.au

Bob Rankin
Head of International Department
Reserve Bank of Australia
SYDNEY

Phone: +61 2 9551 8410