Prime Minister John Key is to meet President Barack Obama when he visits the United States next month.
The White House. Photo: AFP
Mr Key said the invitation from Mr Obama underlines the very close relationship between the US and New Zealand.
He said the two are likely to discuss the Trans Pacific Partnership negotiations, take stock of the bilateral relationship and exchange views on current regional and international issues.
Mr Key will not raise drone attacks or mass surveillance when he meets Mr Obama.
However, Labour leader David Cunliffe said on Tuesday both drone attacks and mass surveillance should be on the agenda for the meeting.
"I would be seeking to clarify whether there are any limits on the purposes for which New Zealand supplied intelligence could be put and I would be seeking some assurances that activities which pertained to New Zealand supplied intelligence were compatible with both the rule of New Zealand law and international law."
The trip is scheduled for 16-20 June.
Before going to Washington, Mr Key will visit New York to again push New Zealand's bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for 2015-16.
