New Zealand prime minister visits Marcos in Malacañang

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in this file photo taken in October 14, 2023. REUTERS/David Rowland/File Photo

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday received New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon during an official visit at Malacañan Palace.

Luxon is in the Philippines for an official visit from April 18 to 20, with the goal of expanding the reach of New Zealand businesses in Southeast Asia.

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The New Zealand Prime Minister was given arrival honors in the Palace, followed by the signing of the guest book. The two leaders will hold a bilateral meeting in Malacañang.

Marcos and Luxon will discuss solutions to matters such as sustainability, climate change, food security, renewable energy, disaster risk management, and good governance.

According to the Palace, Luxon is the first New Zealand prime minister to visit the Philippines in 14 years.