New Zealand assistance

Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta confirmed $75 million had been earmarked to support Pacific and global vaccine access and roll-out. 

“New Zealand is pursuing a portfolio of potential Covid-19 vaccines to ensure we have flexibility and choice in the fast-moving global marketplace. 

"We want to make sure Pacific countries can also access suitable options, and have the support they need to run successful immunisation campaigns,” she says.

Jacinda Ardern is visiting Apia as part of her Pacific Missions trip which also includes legs in Tonga, Niue and the Cook Islands.

Speaking at a press conference with her Samoan counterpart Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, Ms Ardern announced her government has committed increased funding for a private sector development progamme in Samoa.

In Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's first official visit to Samoa, she joked to her counterpart Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, that she has been called the daughter of Niue and to not be offended.

The two leaders emphasized the importance of their relationship, especially around climate change, and the economy.

They spoke at length about the recent Cyclone Gita, and in particular, an unprecedented landslide.