German is of great value for business, research and cultural transfer. It is the most widely spoken language in the European Union, and one of the top three international research and internet languages.
A substantial number of German companies are actively engaged in New Zealand, and German tourists in New Zealand make up the largest contingent from continental European countries. German speaking countries are in the technological and economic vanguard of many areas of the automotive industry, the air and space industry and of technologies protecting the natural environment. Germany has a rich cultural heritage and a diverse and vibrant contemporary culture. In these days of the diminishing significance of physical geography, it is more important than ever for New Zealand to collaborate with forward-looking partners in the global village.
