Oval Office Chat: Prime Minister Bill English and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg

On February 5, President Trump and Prime Minister Bill English of New Zealand, via telephone, affirmed the close friendship and bilateral alliance between the United States and New Zealand.  The two leaders discussed regional issues, including challenges to regional peace and security, and the President affirmed to the Prime Minister the U.S. commitment to strong and active engagement in Asia.  President Trump expressed appreciation for New Zealand's significant contributions to international peace and security concerns. 

The President also spoke with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg about the United States' strong support for NATO.  The leaders discussed how to encourage all NATO allies to meet their defense spending commitments.  Additionally, the parties discussed the potential for a peaceful resolution of the conflict along the Ukrainian border.  The parties agreed to continue close coordination and cooperation to address the full range of security challenges facing NATO.  President Trump agreed to join in a meeting of NATO leaders in Europe in late May. 

Source: The White House, Office of the Press Secretary