New envoys present their credentials

To view images from the ceremony, click here

Envoys for Cuba, Kuwait and Italy will present their credentials to the Governor-General, Lt Gen The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae, at Government House in Wellington on Thursday 3 November.

The ceremony, which will include a Māori ceremonial challenge, and a military guard of honour provided by the Royal New Zealand Air Force, begins at 11am.

The Ambassador of Cuba, Mrs Maria del Carmen Herrera Caseiro will be the first to present her credentials. She is a career diplomat and most recently was Deputy Director of Multilateral Affairs in Cuba’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  She has also served in Geneva and Lagos.  She will be resident in Wellington.

The Ambassador for Italy, Dr Alessandro Levi Sandri is a career diplomat and has served in a number of senior roles in the Republic’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  He also served in Paris, Belgrade and Berne.  He will be resident in Wellington.

The Ambassador of Kuwait, Mr Khaled Mohammad Al-Shaibani, is a career diplomat and is based in Canberra where he also serves as Ambassador to Australia.  Prior to his current appointment, he served as Ambassador to Poland.

Also in attendance will be the High Commissioner for Niue, Mrs O'Love Jacobsen, and the High Commissioner for the Cook Islands, Mr Tekaotiki Matapo.  As representatives of realm countries their participation in this ceremony will mark the conclusion of formalities around their appointments.

For further information please contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade on 021 375 105.

Media wishing to attend the ceremony must contact Rebekah Clement, Public Affairs Adviser, Government House on 04 382 0844 or 021 243 7958