New Zealand strengthens South America ties with Colombia embassy
Xinhua, September 15, 2015 Adjust font size:
The New Zealand government is to open a new embassy in Bogota, Colombia, to strengthen business links with Latin America, Foreign Minister Murray McCully said Tuesday.
"Colombia is an increasingly important partner for New Zealand, as it is strategically at the top of South America and has one of the strongest performing economies in the region," McCully said in a statement.
"With a population of over 46 million and solid growth there are numerous opportunities for New Zealand businesses in Colombia, particularly in areas such as education and investment," he said.
"Having a dedicated New Zealand presence on the ground in Bogota will help to support the development of strong business links, particularly investment in Colombia's agri-business and dairy sectors."
The decision to open an embassy reflected the government's desire to deepen New Zealand's relationship with Latin American partners, particularly as Colombia is a key member of the Pacific Alliance, along with Chile, Mexico and Peru.
The embassy would be New Zealand's fifth post in Latin America and would be established in 2016. Endi