New Zealand to Welcome Pacific Leaders for High-Level Regional Talks
By Melino Maka
Tonga Independent News
New Zealand will host a series of important diplomatic engagements with Pacific leaders next week, underscoring its enduring commitment to regional cooperation, development, and shared prosperity. The announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters and Minister for Pacific Peoples Hon Dr Shane Reti.
“New Zealand is intrinsically a Pacific nation, not just geographically but through deep familial, historical, and cultural ties,” said Mr Peters. “Our Pacific future depends on maintaining strong, respectful, and face-to-face dialogue across the region.”
A key visit will be that of Baron Waqa, Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), who will meet with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Deputy Prime Minister Peters, Dr Reti, Climate Change Minister Hon Simon Watts, and Members of Parliament across party lines. The visit reflects the Forum’s central role in regional collaboration and the strategic importance of New Zealand’s engagement within it.
“The Secretary-General’s visit comes at a critical time as the region continues to grapple with challenges such as climate change, education outcomes, environmental protection, security, and post-COVID recovery,” Mr Peters said. “We look forward to working with him on strengthening regional institutions and advancing the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.”
In addition, Ulu o Tokelau Esera Tuisano will make his first official visit to New Zealand in a landmark moment for the shared relationship between the two countries. His visit comes in the lead-up to the centenary of the constitutional relationship between New Zealand and Tokelau in 2026.
“For nearly a century, New Zealand and Tokelau have walked side by side,” Mr Peters noted. “Our shared citizenship binds us with a sense of mutual responsibility, and we are honoured to host the Ulu and deepen our partnership ahead of this historic milestone.”
The week will also see New Zealand host the Council of the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Auckland from 19–21 May. Delegates from 12 Pacific nations will gather to set the direction of the region’s premier tertiary education institution.
“Our role as host reflects New Zealand’s unwavering support for Pacific regionalism, particularly in education and research,” said Dr Reti. “USP plays a vital role in building the capacity of Pacific peoples to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
In a further show of regional diplomacy, Mr Peters will hold bilateral talks with Tuvalu’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Hon Panapasi Nelesone. The meeting will reaffirm New Zealand’s support for Tuvalu’s development priorities, including efforts to build economic resilience and respond to climate-related threats.
“These engagements show our dedication to being a reliable, responsive, and respectful partner in the Pacific,” Mr Peters said. “It’s about listening, learning, and acting together to build a resilient and thriving region.”
New Zealand’s upcoming week of Pacific-focused diplomacy is a timely reminder that regional solidarity remains the cornerstone of a sustainable future for all Pacific peoples.
