Sunak and New Zealand PM Join Forces Ahead of King’s Coronation
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak welcomed New Zealand’s PM Chris Hipkins to Downing Street today, just a day before His Majesty The King’s Coronation.
UK-New Zealand Free Trade Deal Set to Boost Trade
The two leaders toasted the news that the UK-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement will kick in this month. They agreed it’s a game-changer, set to unlock huge trading potential for both nations.
Indo-Pacific Security and Ukraine Support in Focus
Sunak and Hipkins swapped views on key strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific. Both pledged to work closely with partners to keep the region stable and strengthen economic resilience.
Sunak thanked Hipkins for New Zealand’s robust backing of Ukraine, highlighting the nation’s vital role in Operation Interflex. “The support from New Zealand is making a real difference on the battlefield,” Sunak said. He also welcomed Hipkins’ commitment to extend training support through 2024.
Looking Ahead to Samoa’s Commonwealth Summit
The pair also chatted about the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, set for Samoa in 2024. Both leaders expressed eagerness to team up with Pacific partners for a successful summit.