[Asia Economy Reporter Park Byung-hee] New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she expects New Zealand to abandon its monarchy serving the British king and become a republic within her lifetime, Bloomberg reported on the 18th (local time). This statement contrasts with her earlier remarks that she would not push for New Zealand's transition to a republic during her term, implying that she believes New Zealand will become a republic soon after she steps down.
Prime Minister Ardern visited the UK to attend the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away on the 8th, and made these remarks in an interview with the BBC.
Ardern said that the relationship between the UK and New Zealand will continue to evolve, and although the change will not be rapid, it will gradually transform over time within her lifetime. She also mentioned that she believes Queen Elizabeth II recognized that the relationship between the UK and New Zealand was changing over time. However, Ardern reiterated that she has no intention of pursuing a transition to a republic during her term.
The Commonwealth of Nations is a loose association of 56 independent countries, including the UK and its former colonies, among which 14 countries, including New Zealand, recognize the British monarch as their head of state.
With the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned for over 70 years, there are expectations that more of these 14 countries will no longer want to recognize the British monarch as their head of state.
Gaston Brown, Prime Minister of the Caribbean island nation Antigua and Barbuda, announced on the 11th, just three days after Queen Elizabeth II's passing, that a referendum on transitioning to a republic will be held within three years. Previously, Barbados elected its first president last November, 55 years after independence, ending its recognition of the British monarch. Jamaica is also expected to follow Barbados's example.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has also expressed openness to pursuing a transition to a republic in the future, though he has stated that it will not be pursued immediately.
Ardern's stance can be seen as similar to that of Prime Minister Albanese. However, Ardern said that even if the relationship with the UK changes over time, the bonds among Commonwealth countries will be maintained.
Ardern said that King Charles III, the new monarch of the UK, is well known in New Zealand and will not cause confusion there. She mentioned that King Charles III shares many passions and interests with New Zealanders.
Ardern also recalled the first time she met Queen Elizabeth II. She said she was pregnant at the time and asked the Queen how she managed to balance her duties as a monarch and as a mother. Ardern said the Queen told her, "you just get on with it," which she described as the best advice she ever received.
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