European Union High Level Presence At Christchurch's National Memorial Service
EU Trade Commissioner Karel De Gucht will be representing the European Union at the National Memorial Service in
Christchurch on 18th March.
He has been invited by New Zealand Prime Minister John Key to the event. He will be joining the other senior figures
coming from abroad - HRH Prince William, as well as Australia's Governor-General Quentin Bryce, Prime Minister Julia
Gillard and Leader of the Opposition Tony Abbott.
Commissioner De Gucht said. "I am coming to express the European Union's condolences and sympathy at the sad loss of life and damage the recent
earthquake caused in Christchurch. The European Union is ready to give rapid and effective assistance where most needed
at the request of the New Zealand Government, as we are also offering to Japan at this time."
Background
Mr Karel De Gucht is a former Deputy Prime Minister of Belgium. He has also held Ministerial portfolios for his country
in Foreign and European Affairs as well as in International Trade. He was Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian
Aid in the service of the European Union before his current responsibilities.
ENDS