Donald Trump has announced Jared Novelly, Australian basketball team owner and philanthropist, as his pick for U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa, underscoring the administration's focus on strengthening Indo-Pacific ties.
The appointment comes as President Trump's administration seeks to deepen strategic relationships in the Indo-Pacific region amid growing geopolitical tensions, the New Zealand Herald reported.
New Zealand and the U.S. have long-standing ties rooted in shared democratic values, mutual trade interests and regional security collaborations, including participation in initiatives like the Quad and AUKUS.
Novelly, known for his role as chairman of Crest Sports and Entertainment and his philanthropic efforts, represents a nontraditional but potentially influential choice for the role.
Trump announced Novelly's nomination on Truth Social, highlighting his reputation as a "highly respected philanthropist" and his commitment to protecting American interests in the Indo-Pacific.
The role includes responsibilities as ambassador to both New Zealand and the Independent State of Samoa, key nations in a strategically important region.
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters of New Zealand expressed optimism about the bilateral relationship, citing ambitions to expand trade, space sector collaboration and regional security efforts.
Novelly's nomination must be confirmed by the Senate.
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