Microsoft’s collaborations with New Zealand at a governmental level are increasing. It’s a partnership that reflects Microsoft’s commitment to playing a greater role in the APEC community.

On the 19th and 20th of November 2020, with the prospect of the end of the global pandemic beckoning, APEC CEOs and governments, including New Zealand, met in cyberspace. The theme of their virtual conference was  “APEC Re-Imagined: Priorities in the Aftermath of COVID-19.”

The occasion was the APEC CEO Summit – an annual forum where business and government leaders connect to discuss topics of mutual importance for the Asia-Pacific region’s development.

Brad Smith, President of Microsoft, interviewed both New Zealand’s incoming 2021 Chair and Host country’s Head of Government, Prime Minister, Rt Hon Jacinda Ardern on her take on the key regional policy priorities for the year ahead.

A broad range of issues of key importance to the Asia-Pacific region were discussed: economic recovery and the role of digitisation in it, combating climate change, and adopting a digital model for public diplomacy.

The aim of the dialogue was to form an “imprint of what APAC could be in the years ahead”.

Malaysia was the host of this years’ conversation. Next year, New Zealand will assume this role.

Microsoft has publicly stated the importance of its relationship with the New Zealand government, saying it is “privileged to be part of APEC community and committed to continue working together with APEC and the upcoming Chair and Host, Aotearoa New Zealand.”