1 March 2018
Bridges to attend trans-Tasman leadership forum
National Party leader Simon Bridges will attend the annual Australia New Zealand Leadership Forum in Sydney tomorrow.
“The Forum is a great opportunity for business leaders from the largest companies in Australia and New Zealand to engage
with law makers on both sides of the Tasman to strengthen our trade and economic relationship.
“Two-way trade between our two countries is valued at around $24 billion and National places great importance on this
relationship which has, unfortunately, recently been strained by this Government’s antagonistic approach to Australia.
“I’m looking forward to the chance to introduce myself to people and to talk about what the National Party I lead will
stand and fight for.
“That includes our commitment to security, free trade and promoting international investment to create opportunities and
help ensure our businesses succeed and our people get ahead.
“With the current Government putting up a closed sign to immigrants and foreign investors, I’ll be reiterating our
commitment to an open economy that promotes trade and investment and backs New Zealanders to succeed on the
international stage.”
Mr Bridges will leave for Australia on Friday morning, returning the same day.
ends