Hon NANAIA MAHUTA (Minister of Foreign Affairs): New Zealand is actively engaged as a member of the International Seabed Authority—ISA—in the development of a regulatory framework to govern seabed mining. The member may be aware that New Zealand is one of the few countries to have a robust regulatory framework to govern seabed mining within our national jurisdiction, and we're drawing on our experience as we contribute to the development of the international mining code. In the Pacific, attitudes towards deep-sea mining are mixed. New Zealand does not take a position for or against mining on the seabed within the jurisdiction of Pacific Island countries. We respect the mana and sovereignty of these Governments. However, we continue to engage with ISA and call for robust legal frameworks, effective governance structures, and high standards of environmental protection. We need to work together with all our partners to advocate for a regulatory framework that provides for a high level of environmental protection. Over recent years, New Zealand has made several submissions to ISA to this effect and will be submitting a further contribution this week.