Diplomat gets a second posting to Hong Kong

Press, 1 April 1985, Page 13

Diplomat gets a second posting to Hong Kong

Wellington

Mr Frank Muller has been appointed for a second time as New Zealand’s High Commissioner in Hong Kong, said the Prime Minister Mr Lange.

Mr Muller will take up his appointment in May, succeeding Mr Gerald McGhie, who has been appointed High Commissioner in Port Moresby. Hong Kong was among' New Zealand’s top 10 markets and was of importance to New Zealand both in its own right and as a gateway for other Asian destinations, said Mr Lange.

Trade between New Zealand and Hong Kong continued to expand at a steady rate as did the growth in other key sectors such as finance and tourism, he said.

“In the light of the successful conclusion to the negotiations between China and Britain on the future of Hong Kong, its economic prospects now seem assured.

“Over the next few years or so we can expect to see the gradual welding of South China development, and especially that of the special economic zones such as Shenzhen, with that of Hong Kong. It seems likely that impressive economic growth rates will continue to be achieved in that area and it is in our interests to participate in and contribute to that growth.” Mr Lange said Mr Muller’s previous experience in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs made him very well suited to carry out his new job. Mr Muller previously served as High Commissioner in Hong Kong from 1980 to 1983.

His earlier overseas postings included New Delhi, The Hague, and Ottawa, and from 1977 to 1980 as ConsulGeneral in Los Angeles. Mr Muller was, until January; 1985, executive assistant to the Prime Minister.

He is married, with three children.