WELLINGTON, Nov. 13 (Xinhua) -- Leaders of New Zealand and Niue met in Auckland on Thursday to agree a foundational political declaration, "encapsulating the partnership between the two countries," according to a New Zealand government statement.
Describing Niue as "one of our closest partners in the Pacific," New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the two countries are celebrating the relationship of free association and setting out mutual responsibilities and shared goals.
The signing of the declaration kicks off the first of what is to become an annual New Zealand-Niue Leaders' meeting, with discussions including Pacific regionalism, climate and economic priorities, and social and governance issues, the statement said. ■