NZ Finance and Climate Ministers to Join 2+2 Meeting in Australia

The "2+2" format facilitates discussions between New Zealand’s Finance and Climate Change Ministers and their Australian counterparts, focusing on the intersection of climate action and economic strategy.

New Zealand Finance Minister Nicola Willis and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts will participate in the second annual Australia-New Zealand 2+2 Climate and Finance Ministers' meeting in Brisbane this week.

The "2+2" format facilitates discussions between New Zealand's Finance and Climate Change Ministers and their Australian counterparts, focusing on the intersection of climate action and economic strategy.

"We value Australia as our most important economic and trade partner, and the 2+2 meeting is a key opportunity to strengthen our relationship while tackling climate resilience and economic growth amidst growing geopolitical challenges," stated Nicola Willis.

Simon Watts highlighted that the discussions will center on advancing existing collaborations between the two countries. "Climate change is impacting both Australia and New Zealand, and our Government is committed to meeting our climate targets to mitigate these effects and prepare for future challenges," said Watts.

The agenda includes promoting the adoption of low-emissions technologies, developing sustainable finance frameworks, collaborating on green shipping initiatives, and enhancing climate resilience in the Pacific region.

During their visit to Brisbane, the Ministers will engage in separate bilateral meetings with their Australian counterparts, meet with Australian business leaders, and interact with the Australia and New Zealand Leaders Forum (ANZLF) and New Zealand's Centre for Sustainable Finance (CSF). They will also engage with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC).

The delegation will return to New Zealand on Wednesday, July 31.