New Zealand National Day Stated U.S. Secretary of State Pompeo

Secretary of State Pompeo

On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my best wishes as New Zealand commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on February 6.

The long-standing friendship between the United States and New Zealand continues to expand and deepen. Americans and New Zealanders have fought side-by-side to defend freedom and democracy in every major conflict since World War I and have cooperated broadly to bring peace, stability, and prosperity to both our people and the world.

The past year has been one of triumph and tragedy for New Zealand, and the United States continues to stand with you and the international community in your work to counter terrorism and violent extremism in the wake of the Christchurch attacks. We are grateful for the heroic efforts of New Zealanders to save American lives following the Whaakari/White Island eruption and appreciate your continued efforts to support those who are still recovering. New Zealand’s impressive response to the measles outbreak in Samoa is yet another example of your country’s admirable humanity and leadership in the Pacific, and we are proud that Americans worked alongside Kiwis to help our Samoan friends. New Zealand is an indispensable partner in securing a free and open Indo-Pacific, and the United States looks forward to continuing our work with you to promote our shared vision of a prosperous and stable region.

I congratulate all New Zealanders as you celebrate your nation’s independence.