NEWSFLASH

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RP-NEW ZEALAND DIRECT FLIGHTS SOON

Manila, Feb. 9, 1998 - There will soon be direct flights between Manila and Wellington, New Zealand. The Philippines and New Zealand will resume negotiations for an air services accord that will boost trade and increase tourism activities between the two countries.

"We have a forward looking approach on the agreement," said New Zealand's ambassador to the Philippines Colin Bell.

The last time officials from Manila and Wellington held talks on the agreement was February last year.

Although bilateral trade between the two countries stood at NZ$368 last year, tourism has yet to pick up. Most passengers visiting the Philippines from New Zealand have to take connecting flights either from Hong Kong or Singapore.

Deputy to the ambassador Tim McIvor said both sides are making significant progress.

"Negotiations should pick up where we left," he said.

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