MEDIA STATEMENT

28 September 2010

Speaker builds on NZ relationships with Spain

The Speaker of the House, Dr The Rt Hon Lockwood Smith, met with King Juan Carlos I in Madrid on the first leg of the Speaker’s delegation to Spain (Monday September 27).

“Our discussion centred on continuing to build the warm relationships between Spain and New Zealand including the introduction of working holiday and science mobility schemes between our two countries, which were signed during the Kings visit to Spain in June of last year.”

The Speaker’s delegation is in Spain at the invitation of both Presidents of the Spanish Legislature.

Dr Smith was also hosted to an hour-long meeting with Spain’s Prime Minister, Jose Zapatero, and discussed opportunities for bilateral relationships with New Zealand, economic developments, and the importance of New Zealand’ existing free trade agreements.

There is a warmth in the relations with Spain and an interest in the Asia Pacific Region where Asia is seen as the engine for economic growth.

“New Zealand’s network of free trade agreements was noted as being beneficial during the world financial crisis and there is clearly an interest in exploring opportunities for Spain and New Zealand to work together.”

Parliamentary democracy and human rights issues were discussed with the President of the Spanish Senate, Francisco Javier Rojo.

ENDS

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