New Zealand pushing for greater economic integration in Pacific

New Zealand will be looking to push for increased trade and economic opportunities among Pacific island nations at this week's Pacific Island Forum Economic Ministers Meeting in Tonga, Associate Minister of Finance Jonathan Coleman said Wednesday. "The Forum Economic Ministers Meeting is a chance for finance ministers to share experiences and develop collective responses to wider issues of economic growth and regional integration," Coleman said in a statement. "It is important that New Zealand contributes to this dialogue, and that we assist with driving forward change. Sustainable economic development is vital to unlocking the Pacific's potential and developing security and prosperity," he said. "New Zealand is committed to supporting increased trade, investment and economic opportunities in the Pacific." The annual meeting on July 4 and 5 would bring together 15 ministers and representatives from across the Pacific. Coleman would also attend Tongan King Tupou VI's birthday celebrations, along with the Royal New Zealand Navy band, which would take part in celebrations. The events would include a tribute to the New Zealand and Australian defense forces for their 41 years of technical adviser assistance to the Tongan Defense Services.