Foreign
New Zealand’s and Australian foreign ministers on Thursday discussed ways to continue and deepen bilateral cooperation to meet shared challenges.
New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta and Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne met in the New Zealand’s capital, Wellington, for the biannual Australia-New Zealand foreign minister consultations.
Payne’s visit is the first official visit by the side of Australia to New Zealand since both countries imposed border restrictions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020.
The ministers welcomed the chance to meet in person for the first time, following the commencement of the two-way quarantine-free travel on Monday.
This allowed the reunion of many families separated by the Tasman Sea and the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic.
They reaffirmed their intent to work together to preserve the liberal international order that has underpinned stability and prosperity in the region.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to fostering a sustainable regional balance where all countries can freely pursue legitimate interests.
The ministers also highlighted the importance of strengthening gender equality, including promoting women in leadership in the Pacific, and initiatives on sexual and reproductive health and rights.
They reiterated both governments’ commitment to a resilient and united Pacific region underpinned by robust regional architecture.
They promised to continue to help Pacific island countries to manage the health and economic impacts of COVID-19, including support for the rollout of vaccines. (Xinhua/NAN)
– Apr.22, 2021 @ 11:35 GMT |
Tags: Australian foreign ministers vow to strengthen bilateral ties New Zealand
