PM Luxon and Foreign Minister Peters to Attend Commonwealth Meeting in Samoa

“CHOGM is a fantastic opportunity to connect with other Commonwealth leaders,” Prime Minister Luxon said.

CHOGM to Highlight Pacific Concerns Amidst Global Challenges

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters will join world leaders in Apia this week for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), marking the first time the 56-nation summit is hosted by Samoa. The meeting presents a significant opportunity to showcase the Pacific region on the global stage.

“CHOGM is a fantastic opportunity to connect with other Commonwealth leaders,” Prime Minister Luxon said. “In these uncertain geopolitical times, it is important to meet face-to-face to discuss how we can be more resilient in the face of global challenges.”

New Zealand will deploy approximately 460 personnel to Samoa in support of the event, including 260 Defence personnel, 100 Police officers, and 50 medical specialists such as doctors, nurses, and paramedics. The deployment will also include five ambulances, a naval vessel, three New Zealand Defence Force helicopters, and two explosive ordnance detection dogs.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters highlighted that this year’s CHOGM offers a platform to bring attention to the concerns of smaller nations and the Pacific region in particular.

“We hope that Samoa’s hosting will ensure the Pacific’s specific issues are at the forefront of delegates' discussions,” Mr. Peters noted, underscoring the importance of addressing regional concerns during the global summit.