Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern of New Zealand recently made her first international travel as the Prime Minister to Australia. During her visit, she held discussions with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on a range of topics, including the economy, security, and foreign policy issues. Both leaders expressed their commitment to strengthening the Trans-Tasman relationship, which is based on the Closer Economic Relationship Agreement, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.
One of the topics discussed during the visit was the cost of living and high-interest rates, which affect both New Zealanders and Australians. The leaders talked about the unique closeness of their countries and their ability to work together on issues that other countries cannot.
Prime Minister Ardern also acknowledged the progress made in addressing issues related to New Zealanders who live and work permanently in Australia and expressed her desire to continue working on these issues.
In response to a journalist’s question, Prime Minister Ardern stated that her government’s foreign policy, including the nuclear-free policy, has not changed and that Australia, the US, and the UK remain important security partners for New Zealand.
Prime Minister Ardern’s visit to Australia emphasized the strong bond between the two countries and their commitment to working together to address important issues.
Prime Minister Albanese of Australia and Prime Minister Hipkins of New Zealand had a joint press conference where they talked about several important topics, including their country’s defense relationships. Both leaders emphasized the strength of their relationship with New Zealand and the United Kingdom, with Prime Minister Albanese highlighting the US as Australia’s most important defense ally.
The leaders also discussed the issue of the Voice to Parliament, which is about the recognition and consultation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia. Prime Minister Albanese stated that the New Zealand system is different and that the draft questions for the upcoming referendum on the Voice to Parliament will be put before the Australian people later this year.
Both leaders also spoke about their relationship with China. Prime Minister Hipkins said that China is an important trading partner for New Zealand and they will continue to strive to strengthen the relationship while voicing their disagreements when necessary.
Prime Minister Albanese added that Australia’s position on China is clear, to cooperate where they can and to disagree where necessary, always in the country’s national interest. He also highlighted the importance of economic relations with China as it is a significant trading partner for Australia, accounting for more than the trade value of the next three highest trading partners combined.
Source: Gov[dot]Australia
