Foreign Minister, Nanaia Mahuta has announced the appointment of diplomat, Nicci Stilwell, as the next Ambassador to Colombia.
Located at one of New Zealand’s newest Posts in Bogotá, Ms Stillwell’s appointment will be vital to furthering Aotearoa’s relationship with Colombia, said Ms Mahuta.
“I look forward to seeing how we can better work together to address challenges in the region,” the Minister said.
“New Zealand remains a firm supporter of Colombia’s peace process, including by contributing support for humanitarian demining activities.
“Trade is a key part of our relationship with Colombia, partnering on inclusive trade issues including as a member of the Global Gender and Trade Arrangement. We are also looking forward to deepening trade and economic links further through the Pacific Alliance – a regional initiative comprised of Colombia, Chile, Mexico and Perú.
“Agricultural co-operation is also increasing between our countries. We recently announced climate support through a new agriculture initiative with Latin American and Caribbean partners. This will enable locally-led initiatives to build low-emissions methods of farming that are uniquely suited to their communities.”
Ms Stilwell has most recently been a manager in the Australia division of Foreign Affairs, where she managed the humanitarian and disaster management division.
She has previously served as Deputy High Commissioner at New Zealand’s High Commission in Port Moresby and was a trade and economic secretary at the New Zealand Embassy in Tokyo.
Ms Stilwell will also be accredited to Ecuador and take up her position in November.
