MEDIA STATEMENT

5 October 2010

Links with Italy strengthened by parliamentary visit

A New Zealand Parliamentary delegation visiting Rome says a highlight of their visit was a successful exchange with fellow parliamentarians at the Parliament of Italy.

Led by Hon Pete Hodgson, the delegation met with the chairs of a number of committees discussing topics of mutual interest including the Italian, European and New Zealand responses to the global economic crisis, environmental and energy issues, tourism, and immigration.

The delegation, which includes Jacqui Dean MP and David Clendon MP, also met with Mr Giancarlo Fini, the President of the Chamber of Deputies. Mr Fini spoke of the warm relationship between Italy and New Zealand and noted the exchange of views and experiences was invaluable.

The Italian Antarctic Programme has a bilateral agreement with New Zealand for research in the Antarctic, and members of the programme met with the delegation. Current research by the Italians is focused on analysing the gas composition of ice to help scientists understand possible causes of climate change.

“Our visit provided an extremely useful opportunity for meaningful dialogue between our two countries,” Hon Pete Hodgson said.

During exchanges within their counterparts, the New Zealand delegation wished Italy well in the forthcoming World Cup next year but hoped Italy would not do too well in its games against New Zealand.

Currently in Geneva, the delegation is now attending the 123rd assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union which closes tomorrow.

ENDS

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