PORT VISIT. The HMZNS Aotearoa docked at the Manila Port's Pier 15 on Oct. 30, 2023. New Zealand Ambassador Peter Kell said the port visit is a testament to New Zealand’s commitment to partner with Manila in promoting a stable, peaceful Indo-Pacific. (Photo courtesy of the New Zealand Embassy in Manila)
MANILA – The recent port visit of HMNZS Aotearoa to the Philippines is a testament to New Zealand’s commitment to partner with Manila in promoting a stable, peaceful Indo-Pacific, New Zealand Ambassador Peter Kell said.
The New Zealand Embassy in Manila on Friday said the New Zealand auxiliary ship docked in Manila for a three-day goodwill from Oct. 30 to Nov. 1 as part of the New Zealand Defence Force’s (NZDF) largest naval deployment to the Indo-Pacific.
“The HMNZS Aotearoa's visit to the Philippines underscores New Zealand's dedication to maritime security, regional stability and fostering diplomatic relations in the Indo-Pacific,” Kell said.
“Ito ay nagsisilbing patunay sa matibay na samahan ng New Zealand at Pilipinas (It serves as a testament to the strong and enduring partnership between New Zealand and the Philippines),” he added in Filipino.
The visit coincided with the Philippines’ 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections and the All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day.
During the visit, the embassy said the ship's personnel engaged in various activities that promoted cultural exchange and maritime cooperation.
The port call also followed the 7th Foreign Ministry Consultations between the Philippines and New Zealand last June 23, where defense and security cooperation was discussed, including other regional security issues and the developments in the West Philippine Sea. (PNA)
