NEWS | 16th August 2024 |People were invited to learn more about the role of the British High Commissioner to NZ “Her Excellency Ms.Iona Thomas” and relationships between UK – New Zealand , hosted by Hon Brooke Van Velden Minister of Internal Affairs
In a recent address to the public, British High Commissioner to New Zealand, Ms.Iona Thomas, highlighted the pivotal role of innovation, science, technology, and literacy in fortifying the relationship between the United Kingdom and New Zealand. Her speech underscored the shared values and collaborative spirit that have long characterized the bond between these two nations.
Innovation and Technology:Ms. Thomas emphasized the importance of innovation and technology as cornerstones of modern economies. By leveraging each other’s strengths, the two countries can drive significant progress in areas such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and digital transformation.
Science: The High Commissioner also spoke about the critical role of scientific collaboration in addressing global challenges. She highlighted ongoing partnerships between UK and New Zealand research institutions, which are working together on several projects.
Literacy: Ms. Thomas pointed out, is fundamental to the development of a knowledge-based society. She praised initiatives aimed at improving literacy rates and educational outcomes in both countries. By investing in education and promoting lifelong learning, the UK and New Zealand are preparing their citizens to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
A particularly exciting area of collaboration mentioned by Ms. Thomas is quantum computing. Both the UK and New Zealand are investing heavily in this transformative technology.This bilateral cooperation aims to harness the potential of quantum computing to revolutionize fields such as healthcare, security, and environmental science.
In conclusion, Ms. Thomas reaffirmed the commitment of the UK to deepen its relationship with New Zealand through continued cooperation in innovation, science, technology, and literacy.
Her Excellency Ms. Iona Thomas OBE was appointed as the British High Commissioner to New Zealand and Governor of the Pitcairn Islands in August 2022. Before taking on her role in Wellington, Iona served as the Political Counsellor at the British High Commission in Islamabad, where she was responsible for domestic and regional politics, counter-terrorism, and justice and home affairs. Prior to this, she held the position of Additional Deputy Director for the Middle East and North Africa at the then Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London. From 2015 to 2017, she served as Deputy Head of Mission in Tripoli, where she was instrumental in re-establishing the UK’s permanent presence in Libya, earning her an OBE. Between 2012 and 2015, she was the Spokesperson at the UK Mission to the United Nations in New York. Iona also had postings in Afghanistan, New York, and Pakistan.
