New envoy to W. Germany

Press, 20 October 1984, Page 6

New envoy to W. Germany

PA Wellington New Zealand’s new Ambassador to West Germany will be Mr Edward Farnon, an assistant secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Prime Minister, Mr Lange, has announced that Mr Farnon would replace Mr Jack Shepherd, who will return to New Zealand to retire after 44 years with the Public Service, including 36 years in Foreign Affairs. “It is important for New Zealand that we maintain the warm and understanding relationship with the Federal Republic of Germany that we have at present,” said Mr Lange. “Mr Farnon has the political and economic experience to ensure this.” New Zealand appreciated the consistent support the Federal Republic had given New Zealand in negotiations

with the European Community. The Federal Republic was also a valued commercial partner with real prospects for further growth in areas such as technology transfers and investment. There were also important political interests in the relationship arising from shared membership of the Western Alliance. Mr Farnon’s earlier overseas assignments were to New York, Washington, Brussels, London, and Tokyo. From 1977 to 1980 he served as New Zealand’s permanent representative to the office of the United Nations in Geneva and from 1980 to 1983 he was Ambassador in Seoul. Mr Farnon is now an assistant secretary responsible for economic issues and relations with Europe and Australia. He is married, with three children.