Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is returning to New Zealand after a three-day trip to Samoa and Tonga, where he worked on plans to help the countries tackle crime and improve education.
He said the visit created a strong sense of teamwork between New Zealand, Samoa and Tonga. During the trip, leaders signed agreements on crime and education, but not on immigration. Luxon said this kind of co-operation matters because countries like New Zealand and Pacific nations are facing growing pressure from world events.
He explained that New Zealand wants to work more closely with countries that share similar goals. He also said Pacific nations should solve Pacific problems in their own way, while bigger countries should respect the role of the Pacific Islands Forum. One of the main topics discussed was the rise in drug trafficking across the region. Luxon said the problem is serious and relentless, but countries are making progress by sharing information and working together.
On Wednesday, he announced more funding for the Pacific Detector Dog programme, which is run by New Zealand Police and Customs. The money will help build two new kennels in Tonga. Tonga’s Prime Minister, Lord Fakafanua, said the support was already making a real difference on the ground. Luxon also announced a two-year funding deal so Samoa and Tonga can use Starboard Maritime Intelligence, a system that helps track ships across the Pacific.
He said he hopes ministers from New Zealand and Tonga will keep visiting each other to strengthen those links even more.
