WELLINGTON, Aug 5 (NNN-RNZ) – New Zealand and Vanuatu have a long-standing friendship, underpinned by the bilateral Mauri Statement of Partnership, New Zealand Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, said today.
Luxon and his counterpart, Vanuatu Prime Minister, Charlot Salwai, held formal talks in Wellington, discussing how the two countries can build the relationship even further, and a range of issues including labour mobility and the Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme.
As a trusted partner to Vanuatu, New Zealand greatly values Vanuatu’s leadership, including internationally, on issues such as, climate change, Luxon said, adding, it was also an important chance to discuss issues like New Caledonia, as the two countries both prepare for the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders meeting, later this month.
The ongoing violence in New Caledonia, which has resulted in hundreds of casualties, is of grave concern to the forum, PIF Chair, Mark Brown, said, of the current political crisis in the French overseas territory.
A joint statement, which highlighted areas of alignment and cooperation between New Zealand and Vanuatu was issued, after today’s meeting.– NNN-RNZ
