New Zealand's prime minister Jacinda Ardern announced her resignation on 19 JanuaryPhoto: Getty Images

Prince William and Princess Kate thank Jacinda Ardern for ‘friendship’ in personal message

After Jacinda Ardern announced her resignation as prime minister of New Zealand, the Prince and Princess of Wales sent her a thank-you note.

Prince William and Catherine wrote in a tweet on Tuesday night: “Thank you @jacindaardern for your friendship, leadership and support over the years, not least at the time of my grandmother’s death. Sending you, Clarke and Neve our best wishes. W & C.”

 

Prince William visited Christchurch following the attacks in 2019
Photo: Getty Images

 

When the then-Duke of Cambridge traveled alone to New Zealand in April 2019 to pay his respects to the victims of the Christchurch mosque shootings, it was their first time publicly meeting.

And during Jacinda’s first trip to the UK since the pandemic started in July of last year, William hosted a meeting with her at Kensington Palace.

Additionally, the Prince personally requested that Jacinda represent him at an environmental summit in New York City that was held just a few weeks after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

She said in a speech at the time, “I am an exceptionally poor substitute but I also know we all understand the need for His Royal Highness to be with his family at this time.

 

Jacinda attended Queen Elizabeth II’s state funeral
Photo: Getty Images

 

Hundreds of world leaders attended the late Queen’s state funeral at Westminster Abbey on September 19, 2022, including Jacinda.

The 42-year-old, who at the age of 37 became the youngest female head of state in history, abruptly announced her resignation on January 19.

“I’m leaving because of the responsibility that comes with such a privileged position—namely, the responsibility to know when you are the best person to lead and when you are not. I am aware of what this job entails. And I understand that I’m running out of gas to do it justice. That’s how easy it is”, Jacinda said.

 

Prince William greeted by New Zealand prime minister with a hongi, a traditional Māori greeting, during his visit.  Photo: David Rowlands/AAP

 

Even though her time as prime minister must end no later than February 7th, she will remain a member of parliament through the year’s election.

“I am a human, and so are politicians. For as long as we can, we give everything we have. Then the time comes. And it’s time for me,” she tacked on.

Neve, Jacinda and Clarke Gayford’s first child, was born in June 2018.

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