In an unprecedented move, the Climate Change and Energy Minister of Australia Chris Bowen and Treasurer Jim Chalmers are set to embark on a visit to New Zealand this week to bolster collaboration and enhance economic cooperation towards net zero. 

“Australia and New Zealand have a long history of collaboration, but now is the time to extend that cooperation to issues affecting the Pacific region, including urgent action on climate change.” Minister Bowen said. 

“Partnering with our closest neighbours will help us to seize the economic opportunities to collaborate on cheaper, cleaner energy and climate action as the world accelerates towards net zero.” 

Related: Experts reveal Australia’s “phenomenal demand” for net zero talent 

This visit will see the Treasurers and Climate Ministers of both nations convene for the groundbreaking 2+2 Climate and Finance Dialogue in Wellington.  

The dialogue was established as an outcome of last year’s Australia New Zealand Leaders’ Meeting, where ministers from both countries explored avenues for collaboration. 

The 2+2 Dialogue is slated to become an annual event aimed at fostering continued leadership and cooperation on climate-related matters. The focus will be on capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the transition to net-zero economies and advancing adaptation efforts. 

“Climate change is the single greatest threat to our Pacific family, and longstanding leadership on the international stage continues to be critical,” Minister Bowen said. 

“Now that Australia is back at the table, we are working with our Pacific partners to help the region cut emissions in this critical decade and ensure no one is left behind.” 

In Minister Bowen’s absence, Minister Tanya Plibersek will act as the Minister for Climate Change and Energy, underscoring the Australian government’s commitment to addressing climate-related issues. 

The visit of Australia’s Climate Change and Energy Minister and Treasurer to New Zealand signifies a significant step toward deepening trans-Tasman collaboration on climate change and promoting sustainable economic cooperation.  

As the world accelerates its transition towards a net-zero future, the partnership between these two nations becomes increasingly vital. 

Eliza Sayon

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Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.

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