President's State Visit 2017
State visit of President Higgins
President Michael D Higgins to New Zealand - 2017
President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins, Te Papa Tongarewa, Museum of New Zealand, Wellington, 25 October 2017
New Zealand has been good to Irish people and we are very grateful to the people of this country for providing our citizens with such a warm welcome and encouraging their full participation in New Zealand life. In every generation, the Irish who came here brought with them their strength, determination, creativity, ambition and resolve to build successful lives and a thriving society. As part of our Diaspora, they have of course also contributed to the development of Ireland.
Having travelled all over Ireland and met with representatives of Irish communities worldwide, I can assure you that Ireland really does cherish its special affinity with people of Irish ancestry living abroad, as stated in our Constitution.
Itis a special privilege for Sabina and I to be here with you this evening celebrating that affinity, paying tribute to the work of Irish citizens in New Zealand and the many links that have been forged between the Irish and New Zealanders in history, culture, diplomacy and trade. Slán agus beannacht.
