Monday 2 August 2004

Ambassadors' Tales Help The World's Children

A book of short stories written by the Heads of Diplomatic Missions in New Zealand and their spouses will be launched this evening at Government House for the benefit of children.

Ambassadors Save the Children is the brainchild of editor Dr Moshé Liba, Adjunct Professor in European Literatures and International Relations at the University of Auckland. It contains 30 personal accounts of diplomatic life throughout the world and in New Zealand, from every-day encounters such as languages, eating habits and raising children to reflections on national and international relations.

All stories were voluntarily donated and proceeds from book sales will go directly to Save the Children New Zealand.

The Honourable Dame Silvia Cartwright PCNZM, DBE, Patron of Save the Children New Zealand, extended her congratulations to Dr Liba on the initiative.

“The stories in these pages present the reader with a candid glimpse of diplomatic experiences, amusing in some instances and thought-provoking in others,” she said. “It is wonderful to see so many Ambassadors, High Commissioners and their spouses contribute their time freely for the ultimate benefit of some of the world’s poorest children.”

Dr Liba, who is also a lecturer, poet and painter, has published 52 books, including an earlier collection of stories by diplomats entitled DC Tales, published in 2002.

“Some people only associate Ambassadors with the traditional stereotype: black tie, evening dress, big car with driver and flag, rushing from reception to cocktail party to dinners and official balls. But these stories illustrate the true nature of the Heads of Diplomatic Missions in New Zealand, particularly their generous spirit,” he said.

“Everyone can join the Ambassadors and support Save the Children’s fight for children’s rights by the modest purchase of the book. The organisation works to give children the best possible start in life in many of our contributor’s countries of origin as well as in New Zealand, so it is fitting that they benefit from any profits we generate.”

ENDS

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