Dominica welcomes New Zealand Ambassador Linda Te Puni, strengthening ties in climate resilience, renewable energy, education, and development cooperation.
Dominica: The Government of Dominica has strengthened its bilateral ties with the Government of New Zealand as it welcomed the new Ambassador Designate of New Zealand to Dominica, Linda Charlotte Te Puni, on Friday, June 19, 2026.
Ambassador Linda Charlotte Te Puni officially presented her credentials to Dominica’s President, Sylvanie Burton, during an official welcoming ceremony held at the State House in Roseau. President Sylvanie Burton accepted the Ambassador’s letters of credence and warmly welcomed her, stating she looks forward to engagements that will bring advancements for both countries.
Since 2014, Dominica and New Zealand have been maintaining diplomatic relations, working together in the renewable energy sector, education sector, climate and agriculture projects, as well as other community development projects. Moreover, New Zealand has also worked together with the Government in areas of disaster management in order to enhance preparedness and resilience for schools in Indigenous communities.
All these and many more were highlighted by Ambassador Puni in her speech, who went on to reaffirm New Zealand’s commitment to supporting Dominica’s development priorities, pledging to continue advancing the New Zealand-Dominica relationship.
In her address, President Sylvanie Burton described the decade-long partnership as one of value, “Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries, our partnership has continued to develop in areas that directly contribute to the advancement and well-being of our people. I am pleased to recognise the valuable assistance and cooperation extended by the Government of New Zealand, particularly in the areas of renewable energy, climate resilience, agriculture, disaster-risk management, education and sustainable development, stated the President.
She further spoke of the many challenges that affect and threaten the sustainable growth and development of small island nations like Dominica, including environmental challenges, economic pressures, and climate change, noting that these issues can be addressed only through continued cooperation, innovation, and partnerships between nations.
The President concluded by extending her gratitude to the Government of New Zealand for its support, stating that she looks forward to more significant contributions and a tenure marked by progress.