Meeting in Paris between François Hollande and John Key

Meeting in Paris between François Hollande and John Key

25/09/2013

Press release by the Elysée Palace

The President of the French Republic, François HOLLANDE, received on September 23rd, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, M. John KEY.

The Head of State paid tribute to the exceptional state and the dynamism of the bilateral relationships, being in the political, economic, university or cultural fields. He highlighted France’s will to intensify the political dialogue in regional and international organisations as well as trade by extending it to new sectors. France supports the building of closer relationships between the European Union and New Zealand with the perspective of a partnership and cooperation agreement currently under negotiation.

The President of the Republic recalled the role played by France in the Pacific and its support to the development of cooperation between the French territories and their neighbouring States.

He pointed out France’s attachment to the commemoration of the centenary of the First World War and the remembrance of New Zealand soldiers’ sacrifice, as they fell on our ground. Both our countries will work together to organise the commemoration.

Lastly, on the eve of the opening of the Union Nations General Assembly, the Head of State discussed with the New Zealand Prime Minister the main topics of current international affairs. He insisted on the gravity of the situation in Syria for international peace and security and the necessity for the international community to provide a firm and determined response.

ENDS

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