Minister Vaovasa arrives
New Zealand’s deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vaovasa Winston Peters, is scheduled to touch down at Faleolo International Airport today.
He is here to attend the Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, and meet Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Dr. Sa’ilele Malielegaoi.
It is Vaovasa’s second trip to Samoa this year, following his visit with his Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, earlier this year.
“The Foreign Ministers’ Meeting is an opportunity for Pacific Ministers to consider key regional issues ahead of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Nauru in September,” Vaovasa said in a statement.
“A priority focus for the meeting will be the development of a new regional security declaration, as agreed at last year’s Pacific Islands Forum. Other key issues include climate change, ocean management and sustainable development.
“The Government is committed to re-setting New Zealand’s approach to the region, including deepening our partnerships with our Pacific neighbours.”
While in Apia, Vaovasamanaia will also hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Tuilaepa.
“I also look forward to meeting with Prime Minister Tuilaepa. New Zealand and Samoa share a special relationship, which is underpinned by 56 years of our Treaty of Friendship,” he said.
Vaovasa and his delegation will be in Samoa until tomorrow.