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Concern over missed opportunities of hosting virtual APEC event

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Wed, 1 Jul 2020, 1:29PM
Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters attributed the decision to Covid-19. Photo / File
Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters attributed the decision to Covid-19. Photo / File

Concern over missed opportunities of hosting virtual APEC event

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Wed, 1 Jul 2020, 1:29PM

The Government's being questioned over its decision to transform next year's APEC into a virtual event - more than a year out.

The forum will be hosted virtually from New Zealand next year, due to uncertainty caused by COVID-19.

Conventions and Incentives New Zealand Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins says the Leaders' Week part of APEC isn't scheduled until November 2021.

‘Whatever reason for the decision, I feel like  the Government could have held off on making it for a little longer.”

It had been predicted the forum would see every hotel room in Auckland occupied.

Hopkins says it's incredibly disappointing, especially for our country's brand.

“The ability to put New Zealand front and centre on the world stage doesn't happen that often, so it's unfortunate that we'll miss out on this opportunity.”

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