Joshua Thomson
Joshua is CANZUK International's Senior Associate
for Eastern Canada based in Saint John, NB
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins of New Zealand and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese have come together to embark on an exploration of “seamless” travel between their two nations.
Their meeting in Wellington this week held particular significance, as it marks Albanese’s first visit to New Zealand as Prime Minister and signifies the fifth time the two leaders have engaged in such important discussions.
The gathering was part of the annual Australia-New Zealand meeting, which not only celebrated the 40th anniversary of Closer Economic Relations (CER) and the 50th anniversary of the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, but also commemorated the remarkable 80th anniversary of diplomatic representation between the two countries.
During their bilateral discussions, Prime Minister Hipkins emphasized the strength of the Trans-Tasman relationship. He also shared belief with Prime Minister Albanese that further progress could be achieved by modernizing existing agreements and continuing to cooperate in both nations’ mutual best interests.
The gathering was part of the annual Australia-New Zealand meeting, which not only celebrated the 40th anniversary of Closer Economic Relations (CER) and the 50th anniversary of the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, but also commemorated the remarkable 80th anniversary of diplomatic representation between the two countries.
During their bilateral discussions, Prime Minister Hipkins emphasized the strength of the Trans-Tasman relationship. He also shared belief with Prime Minister Albanese that further progress could be achieved by modernizing existing agreements and continuing to cooperate in both nations’ mutual best interests.
One of the key outcomes of their meeting was the decision to establish a joint Australia-New Zealand expert group. This group will be tasked with outlining initiatives aimed at achieving “seamless” travel across the Tasman Sea, fostering closer ties for businesses and tourism. This ambitious undertaking comes with a clear deadline of June 2024, within which they hope to identify workable measures to streamline border processes while ensuring the safety and security of both nations.
Prime Minister Hipkins acknowledged the challenges involved in this endeavor, recognizing that the border serves as a crucial safeguard against biosecurity, health, and security risks. Therefore, the joint expert group will carefully assess potential measures that reduce barriers without compromising the integrity of security protocols.
Furthermore, the two leaders discussed a “bilateral roadmap,” outlining their shared ambitions for cooperation over the next decade. This roadmap encompasses five key areas: sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous economies; security and resilience; active partnership in the Pacific; upholding shared principles and values; and empowering their people.
Collaboration in the Pacific region was also on the agenda, with both Prime Ministers reiterating their commitment to working with Pacific Island countries to address the region’s priorities. In addition to travel and economic initiatives, the leaders expressed their intent to refresh the Australia-Aotearoa-New Zealand Indigenous Collaboration Arrangement (ICA) and update the Closer Defence Relations (CDR) as part of their commitment to strengthening ties.
This gathering of minds undoubtedly sets the stage for an exciting era of cooperation and progress between Australia and New Zealand, as they strive towards a future marked by seamless travel, enhanced economic ties, and mutual prosperity.
CANZUK International welcomes the intentions of both Australia and New Zealand to increase ties, and will continue to engage with elected officials in both countries to ensure further cross-border initiatives are extended to Canadian and British citizens under the Trans-Tasman Travel Agreement.
Prime Minister Hipkins acknowledged the challenges involved in this endeavor, recognizing that the border serves as a crucial safeguard against biosecurity, health, and security risks. Therefore, the joint expert group will carefully assess potential measures that reduce barriers without compromising the integrity of security protocols.
Furthermore, the two leaders discussed a “bilateral roadmap,” outlining their shared ambitions for cooperation over the next decade. This roadmap encompasses five key areas: sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous economies; security and resilience; active partnership in the Pacific; upholding shared principles and values; and empowering their people.
Collaboration in the Pacific region was also on the agenda, with both Prime Ministers reiterating their commitment to working with Pacific Island countries to address the region’s priorities. In addition to travel and economic initiatives, the leaders expressed their intent to refresh the Australia-Aotearoa-New Zealand Indigenous Collaboration Arrangement (ICA) and update the Closer Defence Relations (CDR) as part of their commitment to strengthening ties.
This gathering of minds undoubtedly sets the stage for an exciting era of cooperation and progress between Australia and New Zealand, as they strive towards a future marked by seamless travel, enhanced economic ties, and mutual prosperity.
CANZUK International welcomes the intentions of both Australia and New Zealand to increase ties, and will continue to engage with elected officials in both countries to ensure further cross-border initiatives are extended to Canadian and British citizens under the Trans-Tasman Travel Agreement.
Heading photo: NCA NewsWire / Gary Ramage
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