Wellington, Aug 3 (IANS): New Zealand Prime Minister John Key is to represent the country at celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of Singapore's independence on August 9.
Key said on Monday that he would take part in events marking the 50th anniversary of New Zealand's diplomatic relations with Singapore and the close ties between the two countries.
"New Zealand is honoured to be one of the countries invited to celebrate this historic occasion in Singapore," Key said.
"As two small states in the Asia-Pacific region, we share many interests and work closely together on many issues."
Singapore is an important economic partner importing over $658.9 million of New Zealand goods in the past year.
It is a major source of investment and serves as a regional hub for many New Zealand companies, said Key.