Prime Minister in Europe

Jacinda Ardern is in Europe, on her way to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting – CHOGM – in London. The 4-day meeting starts today.

Ms Ardern is accompanied by some business leaders, and some ministers including the Minister of Trade. Her concern is the future of trade with the EU after Brexit. Her first meeting was with the French President Emmanuel Macron. They discussed the possibility of a free trade deal for New Zealand with the EU and President Macron appeared to agree with this.

She also spoke at a Paris University about climate change. The Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, gave a speech after her. In between, she managed a brief discussion with him.

She then moved on to Berlin for talks with the German Chancellor, Angela Merkel. Again, she wanted to discuss those same two issues, a free trade deal with the EU, and climate change. Many small Pacific island countries are extremely concerned about climate change leading to rising sea levels. New Zealand is a voice for these countries.

Next Ms Ardern will be in London for CHOGM. She will have talks with the British Prime Minister, Teresa May. She has also been invited for a private meeting with the Queen at Buckingham Palace.