Seeks European help

stability. ‘‘It is a very tough, tough time. Add to that the ongoing pandemic management and a [Ukraine] war, there’s a reason for us as nations to come together and discuss solutions and ways that we can further build our peace and stability,’’ she said.

Mounting economic troubles from inflation, to housing, to supply shortages, which stretch all the way from fuel to skills, were sparking warnings of a looming recession.

New Zealand’s impact on the world stage was limited, but she said this Government’s participation in global efforts should not be downplayed.

‘‘Here we have a large number of European leaders in one place. It is an opportunity for New Zealand to meet one-on-one to share our views of what’s happening in our region, and keep in mind that the basis of all of our foreign policy is to maintain peace and stability.’’

Ardern said the main issue for stability in the Pacific was climate change. ‘‘The threat of that is real, immediate and happening now,’’ she said.

In Brussels, Belgium, Ardern is expected to try to seal a deal with the EU – a group of 27 nations – to increase trade with New Zealand. The primary industries have been a primary focus in these negotiations, but Nina Obermaier, the EU ambassador to New Zealand, says the EU has been particularly interested in sustainable trade and skills sharing.

Ardern was expecting a ‘‘very intense’’ final stretch of negotiations with the EU. Before flying to Europe, Ardern said she had been on calls trying to move the negotiation forward.

deaths in New Zealand

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