NZ Invests $4.4 Million in Early Childhood Development in North Pacific

New Zealand is pledging $NZ4.4 million to support UNICEF-led initiatives aimed at enhancing early childhood development outcomes in the North Pacific region.

Improving the well-being of children across the Pacific is a key focus for New Zealand’s development efforts, according to Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters.

“This commitment reflects our dedication to long-term economic development that benefits both current and future generations,” Peters stated during a visit to Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM).

New Zealand is pledging $NZ4.4 million to support UNICEF-led initiatives aimed at enhancing early childhood development outcomes in the North Pacific region.

“Our visit to FSM provides an essential opportunity to engage with local political leaders, gain insights into Micronesian priorities, and reaffirm our commitment to the region,” Peters added.

Peters is accompanied by Hon Jenny Salesa, Chair of the Labour Pacific Caucus; Tim van de Molen, Chair of the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee (FADTC); and FADTC member Teanau Tuiono.

During their time in FSM, the delegation is meeting with President Wesley Simina, Vice President Aren Palik, Secretary of Foreign Affairs Lorin Robert, and the FSM Congressional Committee on Foreign Affairs. These discussions aim to align shared priorities and exchange views on regional issues.

FSM is the third stop on the delegation’s four-country Pacific tour, which has already included Fiji and the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and will conclude in Palau.