READOUT - OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON  - JANUARY 29, 2021

The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price:

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta.  The Secretary and the Foreign Minister affirmed our close partnership, and the Secretary noted the outstanding example New Zealand has set in successfully combating COVID-19.  The ministers promised close cooperation to fight climate change, strengthen multilateral organizations, support Pacific Island countries, and promote human rights, the rule of law, and regional stability.  The Secretary pledged the United States’ support for New Zealand’s APEC host year.  Together the United States and New Zealand will continue to tackle the greatest challenges confronting our world in order to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region.