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New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern tests positive for COVID -Breaking

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© Reuters. FILE PHOTO. Jacinda Ardern, New Zealand’s Prime Minister, participates in a televised discussion with National leader Judith Collins, at TVNZ, Auckland, New Zealand on September 22, 2020. Fiona Goodall/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo

(Reuters) – Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister of New Zealand was tested positive for COVID-19 and showed moderate symptoms. Her office released a statement Saturday.

While she won’t be present in Parliament for Monday’s government emissions reduction plan and Thursday’s budget, her travel arrangements to visit the United States for her trade mission are not affected at this point,” said the statement.

Ardern has been feeling symptomatic ever since Friday evening. A rapid antigen test returned a strong positive in the night as well as a clear positive early Saturday morning.

It was Sunday when Clarke Gayford’s partner tested positive for her. She is now isolated.

Ardern, who was positive for the test, will need to be isolated until May 21st and perform any remote duties.

On Monday, Grant Robertson, Deputy Prime Minister will speak to media.

Ardern stated in the statement that “This week is historic for the Government, and I am devastated I cannot be there for it.”

“Our emission reduction plan set us on the right path to achieve our CO2 zero goal, and the budget addresses long-term future security and health care in New Zealand,” she stated. But, as I stated earlier this week, it was an extremely rewarding experience for me and my family to be isolated with COVID-19.

Ardern said that Neve, Ardern’s daughter, tested positive on Wednesday.

“Despite best efforts, unfortunately I’ve joined the rest of my family and have tested positive for COVID 19,” Ardern posted on her official Instagram page.

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