Peter Kell appointed as New Zealand's Ambassador to Philippines

Mr Kell is currently Deputy Head of Mission and Consul General in Japan. He has served in the UK, Japan and the Solomon Islands, and has held various senior roles in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters today announced the appointment of diplomat Peter Kell as Ambassador to the Philippines.

Mr Kell is currently Deputy Head of Mission and Consul General in Japan. He has served in the UK, Japan and the Solomon Islands, and has held various senior roles in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

"Mr Kell will serve New Zealand well in the Philippines. The two countries are close friends, with strong links between our peoples," Mr Peters said.

"Our trade relationship, underpinned by the ASEAN Australia New Zealand Free Trade Area and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, is growing rapidly growing with many exciting opportunities on the horizon and Mr Kell will work to carrying on this growth," Mr Peters said.

(With Inputs from New Zealand Government Press Release)