Simon Bridges - Leader of the Opposition
24 August 2018
National congratulates Scott Morrison
Leader of the Opposition Simon Bridges has congratulated Scott Morrison on winning the leadership of the Australian
Liberal Party and has acknowledged outgoing Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.
“I want to congratulate Scott Morrison on becoming Leader of the Australian Liberal Party, and Prime Minister of
Australia” Mr Bridges says.
“When I met Scott I was struck by what a warm friend of New Zealand he is, he knows our country very well.
“Australia is New Zealand’s closest bilateral partner. The relationship between our two countries is strong, and
enhanced by shared values on issues like trade, defence, and security matters. I look forward to further strengthening
this relationship as Leader of the Opposition with Mr Morrison.
“I would also like to acknowledge Malcolm Turnbull for his commitment to the Australian-New Zealand relationship. Mr
Turnbull has been instrumental in ensuring the relationship between our two countries continues to grow from strength to
strength and I am confident that this close relationship will continue to grow under Mr Morrison’s leadership.”
ends