Prime Minister, Chris Hipkins, was today met with an enthusiastic greeting from Niue’s Premier, Dalton Tagelagi, who is currently visiting New Zealand.
Mr Tagelagi took the opportunity to offer Aotearoa’s new leader a hug upon meeting in Wellington.
Mr Hipkins says the pair’s talks touched on many issues facing the region, including climate change, economic development and they discussed the progress made at the Pacific Islands Forum Special Leaders Meeting last week.
“New Zealand and Niue’s shared focus in these areas will be crucial in the years to come,” Mr Hipkins said.
Prime Minister Hipkins and Premier Tagelagi also discussed Niue and New Zealand’s long standing relationship and reflected on the significance of the upcoming 50th anniversary of Niue’s decision on self-government in free association with New Zealand.
“The last three years has been challenging for both New Zealand and Niue. I want to acknowledge Premier Tagelagi’s impressive pandemic management, and reaffirm New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to providing health support to Niue,” Prime Minister Hipkins said.
Mr Hipkins was due to travel to Nadi Fiji last week to attend the Pacific Island Forum Special Leaders meeting but was unable to due to Cyclone Gabrielle, making the Premier the first Pacific leader he has met with since becoming Prime Minister.
