New Zealand will sign up to the UK’s ‘Shadow Fleet’ initiative, as part of the first annual UK-NZ foreign ministers’ dialogue in London.
UK has secured another signatory for its ‘Shadow Fleet’ call to action as New Zealand and UK foreign secretaries pledge closer cooperation.
UK’s foreign secretary David Lammy met with his New Zealand counterpart Winston Peters to discuss a wide range of shared priorities, from trade and economic growth to security challenges and climate action.
This included New Zealand’s confirmation that it will sign up to the UK-led ‘Shadow Fleet’ call to action, an initiative which addresses the environmental and security risks posed by Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’.
David Lammy foreign secretary said: “I welcome this valuable opportunity to discuss the enduring strength and relevance of the UK-New Zealand partnership with Foreign Minister Peters. Our shared values and strategic outlook make us natural partners in addressing global challenges, from supporting Ukraine to tackling climate change.
“The concrete steps we’ve taken today show how our relationship continues to deliver practical benefits for both our nations and the wider world.”
Meanwhile, they agreed joint funding to bolster renewable energy projects in the Pacific, increasing energy access and bringing clean energy to communities by reducing reliance on expensive imported diesel.
A combined funding commitment of £23.9m will support private sector investment in the first of its kind blended finance platform in the region.
The Ministers’ discussions also highlighted the growing science and technology partnership between the two countries, as well as the growing economic relationship.
Exports to New Zealand support around 13,600 jobs in the UK, while around 6,600 UK VAT-registered businesses exported goods to New Zealand last year.
