Overview:
New Zealand has a new diplomatic representative to Palau. Ambassador Stuart Horne formally presented his credentials to President Surangel Whipps Jr. in Koror, marking the start of his role representing Wellington and strengthening ties between the two Pacific nations.
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
KOROR, Palau (Island Times) — New Zealand’s new ambassador to Palau, Stuart Horne, formally presented his credentials Thursday to President Surangel Whipps Jr. during a ceremony at the One Stop Shop building in Medalaii.
Horne becomes the 11th ambassador from New Zealand accredited to Palau, succeeding former ambassador Mike Ketchen.
A career diplomat, Horne is based in Honolulu, where he serves as New Zealand’s consul-general. In addition to his role with Palau, he holds concurrent nonresident ambassadorial appointments to the Federated States of Micronesia and the Marshall Islands.
The presentation of credentials formally recognizes Horne as New Zealand’s diplomatic representative to Palau and signals the continuation of bilateral cooperation between the two Pacific nations.