NZ US Council Congratulates Fred Benson MNZM

NEW ZEALAND UNITED STATES COUNCIL
(www.nzuscouncil.com)

Media Release, 21 March 2007
(Embargoed until 11 am 21 March)

NZ US Council Congratulates Fred Benson MNZM

The NZ US Council congratulates Fred Benson of Alexandria, Virginia, USA, on the award of an Honorary New Zealand Order of Merit.

Mr Benson received his honour from Prime Minister Helen Clark at a reception organised by the US NZ Council in Washington DC today. NZ US Council Executive Director Stephen Jacobi and Board member Mike Hearn were present for the event.

Council Chairman Rt Hon James Bolger ONZ said that Fred Benson, former President of the US NZ Council, is an outstanding American and a good friend of New Zealand.

“This recognition is more than deserved. Fred served as President of the US NZ Council from May 2001 to May 2004 and currently holds the position of Vice Chairman. His time as President saw a significant increase in Council activities, particularly in support of New Zealand’s ongoing campaign for a free trade agreement. Fred increased the Council’s membership, built a strong coalition of business interests in support of the FTA and advocated New Zealand’s case strongly. He visited New Zealand on several occasions and built strong partnerships with New Zealand business organisations with interests in the US.”

“Fred and his wife Ann deserve our thanks and warm congratulations for their continuing advocacy of New Zealand’s interests in the United States”.

ENDS

© Scoop Media