New Zealand appoints new envoy to India

New Zealand's next high commissioner to India will be Rupert Holborow, the country's senior official for APEC.

New Zealand's next high commissioner to India will be Rupert Holborow, the country's senior official for APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) and co-director of the Asia division at the ministry of foreign affairs and trade.

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Holborow, who is also accredited to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal, will assume charge in December, replacing Graeme Waters, who returns to Wellington.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters said: "India's rapidly growing economy, expertise in science and technology, and increasing geo-political importance makes it a priority relationship for New Zealand.

"There is also tremendous scope for increased business interaction, and the recent India-New Zealand Joint Trade Committee made progress towards examining prospects for a free trade agreement," Peters added.

He said that Indians were the second largest Asian group in New Zealand.

"They make a valuable contribution to our society, and will play an important role in broadening bilateral relations, including the growth of our trade and economic ties."

Holborow has previously been posted to Jakarta, and twice to Canberra.