Pacific Diplomacy Week: NZ Welcomes Forum Leaders for Strategic Talks

In a robust demonstration of its enduring commitment to Pacific regionalism, New Zealand will host several prominent Pacific leaders and forums in the coming week, marking a significant moment for regional diplomacy and cooperation. Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters and Minister for Pacific Peoples Dr Shane Reti announced the weeklong series of diplomatic engagements, reinforcing New Zealand’s identity as a Pacific nation and its commitment to collaborative development.

Face-to-Face Diplomacy Returns to the Forefront

“New Zealand is a Pacific country, and regular face-to-face dialogue is a crucial underpinning for our relationships throughout our region,” said Deputy Prime Minister Peters. The visits and meetings set for next week reflect this philosophy, bringing together Pacific voices on shared priorities ranging from climate resilience to educational advancement.

A key figure visiting New Zealand is Baron Waqa, the Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum. His visit includes engagements with top-level New Zealand leaders, including Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts, and a broad spectrum of Members of Parliament. These discussions are expected to focus on the Pacific Islands Forum’s core areas of work—health, education, security, environmental sustainability, and regional unity.

“New Zealand’s membership of the Forum underpins much of our engagement in the region,” said Mr Peters, highlighting how this strategic dialogue contributes to long-term stability and progress across the Pacific.

Strengthening Ties with Tokelau Ahead of Centenary

The upcoming week will also see Ulu o Tokelau Esera Tuisano making his first official visit to New Zealand. The visit is particularly symbolic as it comes in the lead-up to the 100th anniversary of the constitutional relationship between Tokelau and New Zealand, which will be commemorated in 2026.

“New Zealand and Tokelau have enjoyed close ties for nearly a century. We are united by our shared New Zealand citizenship and mutual obligations and responsibilities,” said Peters. Tokelauans are New Zealand citizens, and their unique status reflects deep-rooted cooperation and shared heritage.

The visit will include bilateral discussions focusing on community development, sustainability efforts, and the strengthening of traditional and governmental structures that support Tokelauan society.

University of the South Pacific Council Meets in Auckland

Adding to the week’s importance, New Zealand will also host the Council of the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Auckland from 19–21 May. The council comprises representatives from 12 Pacific nations and serves as the key decision-making body for the region’s premier tertiary institution.

“Our role as host reflects our steadfast commitment to advancing tertiary education and research through Pacific regionalism,” said Dr Reti. The USP is vital in nurturing Pacific scholarship and leadership, and New Zealand’s active participation underscores its dedication to shaping educational pathways that are locally grounded and globally relevant.

The Council’s meeting is expected to address pressing issues such as educational accessibility in remote Pacific areas, digital learning infrastructure, and curriculum development tailored to Pacific cultural contexts.

Bilateral Talks with Tuvalu Focus on Economic Resilience

Further reinforcing New Zealand’s Pacific agenda, Mr Peters will hold bilateral talks with Tuvalu’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Panapasi Nelesone. This meeting will focus on Tuvalu’s most pressing development needs, with an emphasis on enhancing economic resilience in the face of global volatility and climate challenges.

The talks are expected to examine avenues for deepened economic cooperation, infrastructure support, and climate adaptation strategies tailored to Tuvalu’s unique challenges as a low-lying island nation.

A Renewed Regional Commitment

The week of Pacific engagements underscores New Zealand’s proactive role in Pacific affairs—not only as a neighbor, but as a partner, advocate, and co-navigator of shared challenges. It also signals a return to traditional diplomacy with high-level in-person meetings that foster understanding and long-term collaboration.

With a renewed focus on health, education, regional governance, environmental stewardship, and economic sustainability, New Zealand’s outreach this coming week aims to deepen Pacific solidarity in a time of rapid change and growing global challenges.