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New Zealand PM to mark Singapore's independence Jubilee

Xinhua, August 3, 2015 Adjust font size:

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key is to represent the country at celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of Singapore's independence on Aug. 9.

Key said Monday that he would also take part in events marking the 50th anniversary of New Zealand's diplomatic relations with Singapore and the close ties between the two countries.

"New Zealand is honored to be one of a small number of countries invited to celebrate this historic occasion in Singapore, acknowledging the close and warm friendship between our two nations," Key said in a statement.

"As two small states in the Asia-Pacific region, we share many interests and work closely together on many issues," he said.

"Singapore is also an important economic partner, importing over 1 billion NZ dollars (658.9 million U.S. dollars) of New Zealand goods in the past year. It is a major source of investment and serves as a regional hub for many New Zealand companies and business people," said Key.

"We welcome the opportunity to celebrate this special occasion and to reflect on an important partnership that has been characterized by resilience and innovation." Endi