NZ hopes to develop relation with ASEAN

 Visiting New Zealand Prime Minister John Key, during meetings with ASEAN Secretary General Surin Pitsuwan here on Monday, said his country would like to develop better relations with ASEAN member countries following the signing of a free trade agreement in 2009.

"New Zealand is seeking to deepen relations with ASEAN member countries. We are looking for more people-to-people contact, as well as trade and business relations between New Zealand and ASEAN in the future," said the prime minister.

During the Monday meeting, Key stated his belief that the free trade agreement made between New Zealand and ASEAN would benefit both sides.

"Previously, New Zealand signed a free trade agreement with China. As a result, trade between the two sides has increased 50 percent since the signing of the agreement in 2008. I believe the same condition will apply to the free trade agreement between New Zealand and ASEAN," he said.

Meanwhile, ASEAN Secretary General Surin Pitsuwan said New Zealand has been an important partner for ASEAN since the 1970s. Currently, New Zealand has announced its four flagship initiatives within the framework of the Plan of Action to assist ASEAN, namely the ASEAN-New Zealand Scholarships Programme, Young Business Leaders Exchange Programme, initiatives on Disaster Risk Management and Agricultural Diplomacy.

Source: ANTARA