Len Brown will lead a group of Auckland business leaders on a trip to Samoa, Tonga and the Cook Islands next week with the aim of developing closer economic and political relationships with the three countries.
Delegates going on the trip will include business executives from the fields of education, infrastructure and food and beverage – sectors which make up 23 percent of the Auckland economy and are listed as priorities in Auckland Council’s Economic Development Strategy.
The trip comes in a year that marks the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship between New Zealand and Samoa, as well as the 50th anniversary of Samoan independence.
“I am proud of the close association we enjoy with the Samoan, Tongan and Cook Island communities living in the Auckland region,” says Mayor Len Brown. “We value their very special contribution to the diversity and vibrancy of our city. We want to see sustainable economic development flourish between our countries, and enable the communities of the Pacific to enjoy a secure and prosperous future.”
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