New Zealand welcomes seventy Pacific parliamentarians and political leaders

Seventy parliamentarians and leaders from twenty-two Pacific nations will be meeting in Wellington next week for the Pacific Parliamentary and Political Leaders Forum from 18-22 April.

The Chair of the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee John Hayes says this is a great opportunity to promote strong and stable government amongst the Pacific political community.

“Regional cooperation and cohesion is essential to promote links with members of the next generation of Pacific leaders.

“New Zealand has long-standing ties with the whole Pacific region. Hosting this event provides an opportunity to promote increased cooperation and political cohesion with our closest neighbours, and their newest leaders.

“The Committee has taken the lead on bringing these leaders to New Zealand so we can discuss issues of democracy and areas of mutual concern.

“More importantly, this event recognises the importance of the Pacific and our role as a trusted partner in the region,” says Mr Hayes. “For that reason the New Zealand Parliament will for the first time hold a full Parliamentary debate on the Pacific.”

The programme of events will also include panel discussions on governance, the media and government, problems of isolation and delivery of services, as well as the economic outlook for the region.

ENDS

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