Embassy of New Zealand
By ALEXANDER WOODMAN
Your assignment as the Ambassador to KSA has coincided with the launch of Vision 2030. Taking into consideration the changes made in the Kingdom, what additional improvements would you recommend to the frameworks of Vision 2030?
Saudi Arabia has changed in many ways since 2011 when I first lived in the Kingdom. The ambition of Vision 2030 is incredible, and it has been an astonishing journey to witness in recent years. Moreover, it is exceptional to see how the Saudi community has responded to this visionary ambition. It’s a very exciting time to be in the Kingdom.
New Zealand had gone through similar reforms in the past, particularly in the 1980’s. During that time, the government of New Zealand changed from being a primary producer to a tertiary mixed economy. Our experiences with our own economic reforms means we are well-placed to share our experience and lessons with the Kingdom. New Zealand is excited about the opportunities that will be provided by Vision 2030 not only in Saudi Arabia but in the entire region. The Vision 2030 will see the most significant changes in economic life of the Kingdom since the discovery of oil. The New Zealand government is engaged in the Vision and is excited to participate in, and is supportive these changes.
What is the possibility of resuming free trade negotiations between the GCC and New Zealand?
New Zealand has enjoyed its collaboration with the GCC during the past years. In 2009 the government of New Zealand and the GCC agreed to a free trade agreement text, although it has been ‘on hold’ for the past ten years.
Each member-State of the Gulf Cooperation Council is exceptionally complementary to New Zealand in terms of trade and collaboration. New Zealand has had significant investments from the GCC member-States. Similarly, there are also investments from New Zealand in the GCC. GCC countries are respected and reliable international partners for New Zealand and an area that I expect will only increase in importance in coming years.
“Respect for human rights is crucial to help young people achieve their potential.” Please, elaborate on your participation in the “Youth and Human Rights” seminar organized by the Saudi Human Rights Commission.
New Zealand values human rights immeasurably since it is a part of the country’s national identity. It is essential to the citizens of New Zealand that our government promotes human rights. It is great to see the Saudi Human Rights Commission leading public discussion on human rights.
A key message I took away from this seminar is that respect for human rights is essential to support society in achieving its full potential. This includes building a robust and diverse economic life. Respect for human rights should not be seen as a threat, but instead as an opportunity to create the conditions for economies and societies to flourish. Are there trade offs? Yes, there is always going to be. However, the impact is great and the effort is worthwhile. My experience has been that when grappling with human rights, often it is the fear of what might happen that holds people back. I applaud the work of the Commission in helping people to not shy away from human rights or see them as a threat, but rather to embrace them as an opportunity.
What do you like most about the DQ?
The Diplomatic Quarter is superbly designed and is a wonderful place to live. I love the tracks and Wadi trails and can often be found there running or walking with my family. Recently we have really enjoyed spending time at the weekend Farmer’s Market with family and friends.
New Zealand has had a long tradition of being custodian to our land and looking after our environment. The DQ is a beautiful and striking place to visit, and I continue to hope that our residents will try to take better care of it. The beauty of the DQ is natural and located away from the city. Residents must work together to protect the beauty and elegance of it. I often get funny looks coming back from runs carrying bags of rubbish that I have picked up on the trail. People love the DQ because it’s a break from the city and is a clean and green oasis, but we all have to work to keep it that way. Showing respect for the earth and others may be as simply as walking that extra 20 meters to put your trash in the bin.
What kind of food or drink would you recommend to the residents of the DQ this month?
One of my most recent discoveries in DQ was the 12 Cups Café. I enjoy this particular place because they make the closest I have experienced to the New Zealand flat white coffee in Riyadh. This has not been lost on my staff. I actually lose many staff each day due to their need for a coffee fix. Still, at least I know where they are likely to be.
Embassy of New Zealand
Abdullah Ibn Hudhafah As Sahmi, As Safarat
Al Safarat, Riyadh 12521
Tel: 011 488 7988
Email: info@nzembassy.org.sa
