On August 26, 2014 Ambassador Dr Damir Kušen presented his credentials to the Governor-General of New Zealand, H.E. Sir Jerry Mateparae. In his inaugural speech, he emphasized the importance of the development of friendly relations between two countries, particularly connected by a large Croatian Diaspora, whose history of immigration to New Zealand dates back to the mid-19 Century. Throughout that time, Croats in New Zealand have actively contributed to the overall development of New Zealand’s society, the prosperity of the local economy and strengthened relations with European countries. Ambassador Kušen stressed that the Republic of Croatia and NZ share the same value system in the development of a prosperous democratic state focused on building of a society based on knowledge and innovation, use of new technologies, turning to renewable sources of energy, the promotion of tolerance, as well as cooperation and promoting peace in the world. Both countries have an exceptional biodiversity and immense natural beauty.
His Excellency Governor General, Mr. Mateparae, has emphasized the special importance of the role of the Croatian community in the overall development of New Zealand. He said that today"s excellence in wine production is a direct contribution of the Croatian winemakers, and the same goes for the fishing industry. Governor General Mr Mateparae stressed the importance of the recent visit of the Prime Minister of Croatia as a further step forward in bringing the two countries closer together and strengthens their bilateral relations.
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