New Zealand contributes funds towards the hosting of SIDS

New Zealand has contributed funds towards Antigua and Barbuda’s hosting of the Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) Fourth conference from May 27-30.

This conference is a significant global event that sets the agenda for the next ten years for small islands developing states.

To express their gratitude, Foreign Affairs Minister, E.P Chet Greene expressed a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to the government and people of New Zealand for their generosity.

The appreciation was conveyed during a courtesy call with the newly appointed New Zealand High Commissioner to Antigua and Barbuda, E. Linda Te Puni.

Minister Greene and High Commissioner Te Puni also discussed other areas of cooperation that would be beneficial to both countries

Research is ongoing in New Zealand into the sargassum weed, the results of which will be shared with countries in the Caribbean such as Antigua and Barbuda. Additionally, there are short courses available for Antiguans and Barbudans that can provide them with valuable skills.

High Commissioner Te Puni has promised to attend the SIDS4 conference in May, which will further strengthen the close relations between the two countries.

The officials also discussed their mutual love for the game of cricket, which is popular in both New Zealand and the Caribbean.

HC Te Puni referenced New Zealand and Antigua and Barbuda’s common history and their current membership of the Commonwealth of Nations.

The meeting took place at the margins of Thursday’s meeting of the House of Representatives, and following that meeting, the High Commissioner also met with Opposition Leader, Jamale Pringle.