New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern departed on Monday for a six-day trade mission to Singapore and Japan, her first overseas trip since COVID-19 began.
Ardern is hoping to promote New Zealand tourism and education in the two Asian nations and support local businesses rebuild and grow connections in both markets.
“This is a chance to be out there talking about the fact that New Zealand is open,” Ardern told reporters before take-off.
The prime minister will be joined by Trade Minister Damien O’Connor and 13 business leaders, including Fonterra CEO Miles Hurrell.
“This first trade mission is part of our wider plan to reconnect with the world following the devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, strengthening partnerships between government, business, and industry will help accelerate our strong economic recovery,” Ardern previously said in a statement.
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