New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins will make his first overseas trip since becoming the leader of the country next week, when he visits Australia.
The trip, which will take place next Tuesday, will involve Mr Hipkins travelling to Canberra to meet with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The visit is the first official overseas trip for Hipkins since he took office, and is seen as a sign of goodwill between the two countries. The two nations have long shared a strong relationship, and the visit is seen as a sign of the importance both countries place on the partnership.
The Prime Minister of Australia expressed his enthusiasm for welcoming Mr Hipkins and talking about how to reinforce the already close connection between Australia and New Zealand, which is supported by our mutual past and long-term associations of people, businesses, and governments.
“The strong bond between Australia and New Zealand, which has been sustained throughout the years by countless personal, business, and governmental connections, is based on our common heritage,” Mr Albanese said.
Mr Albanese declared Australia’s readiness to provide New Zealand with any necessary support following the devastating floods in Auckland, where a state of emergency persists and several casualties have been reported, with hundreds of people displaced.
“Our hearts go out to all those affected by the tragic floods and loss of life in Auckland. We are here for our loved ones in New Zealand and are ready to help in any way we can,” he said.
Last week, following Jacinda Ardern’s sudden resignation and the subsequent confirmation of an October election, Mr Hipkins took over the reins of the Labour Party as its new leader.