CSIS Announcement

A new study making recommendations to elevate the current US/NZ relationship from its strong foundations has been announced.

Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Honorable Dr. Kurt Cambell and New Zealand Ambassador to the United States Michael Moore were two panellists at the launch.

To read the full speech and testimony by Dr. Kurt Campbell click here.

The study aims to further strengthen connections between the two countries and will include in-depth analysis regarding growth in five critical areas of co-operation:

1. Trade and investment;
2. Security;
3. Science, technology and education links;
4. Socio-cultural ties; and
5. Transnational issues

The impact of regional architecture in these key areas will also be analysed.

At the event Ambassador Moore noted how the US and New Zealand shared "so many common interests and values".

The study could act as a roadmap "that makes a good relationship even better," suggested Ambassador Moore.

Dr Campbell was similarly enthusiastic about the study.

"The US New Zealand relationship is important on many levels ranging from a common vision on the empowering impact of trade to the fundamental value of a safe and secure Asia–Pacific region," said Dr Campbell.

"I am looking forward to these recommendations for taking a solid relationship to new levels."

Dr Kurt Campbell said New Zealand had long been "a friend, a supporter" and a "sounding board" to the US on many issues, and he spoke warmly of Mr Key’s relationship with US President Barack Obama.

John Key had developed "real chemistry" with President Obama, said Dr Campbell.

Preliminary findings from the study are to be discussed in two seminars to be held in Washington in October and in Wellington in November.

The results of the study will then be presented at the fourth US/NZ Partnership Forum which will take place in Christchurch on 20-22 February 2011.

To listen to complete audio coverage of the CSIS bilateral study launch event click here.