Netherlands pm here for low emissions talks

Netherlands prime minister Mark Rutte is in New Zealand from October 8 to 9 for talks on climate change and transitioning to a low emissions economy.

He will then visit Australia for further talks there.

Latest passenger vehicle sales in the Netherlands show a 20% drop in internal combustion engine vehicles (ICE) and a 75% rise in battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales for August compared with same month last year.

Last year, it also reduced greenhouse gas emissions 2% and aims to reduce its emissions in 2020 to a 25% lower level than in 1990.

“This is an opportunity to further strengthen our warm relationship with the Netherlands, and to discuss challenges such as climate change and the transition to a low-emissions economy, recent developments in Europe, and our wish to conclude a comprehensive trade agreement,” New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern says.

Priorities for the visit include enhancing business links as well as building on shared ambitions around climate change mitigation.

Rutte is in New Zealand for the first time in his role with all his engagements in Auckland.

Ports of Auckland chief executive officer Tony Gibson will welcome him on board Dutch built tugboat Hauraki

 to tour the port by sea on October 8.

They will discuss how partnerships between the (POAL) and Dutch firms are helping businesses become more sustainable.

Dutch Damen Shipyards developed with POAL the world’s first full-size electric port tug, which will assist POAL in its goal to become a zero emissions port by 2040.

The University of Auckland will also host Ardern and Rutte on October 8 for an interactive student session on climate change; how to ensure a just transition to a climate neutral economy.

This event will be livestreamed on from about 4.45pm that day click here.