In a bid to strengthen trade ties, New Zealand's Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, intends to embark on a visit to China in the near future, following discussions with China's Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, during his recent visit to New Zealand.
Luxon, accompanied by Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Trade Minister Todd McClay, held discussions with Wang, marking the first visit by a high-ranking Chinese official to New Zealand since 2017.
During a media briefing on Tuesday, Peters described the meetings with Wang as "very convivial, very friendly," revealing that McClay is scheduled to visit China next month, with Luxon planning to follow suit shortly thereafter. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister confirmed that Luxon had received an invitation to visit China, with reciprocal invitations extended to Chinese leadership, although no official arrangements have been confirmed yet.
If confirmed, this visit would mark Luxon's inaugural trip to China since assuming office as Prime Minister last October, with Chris Hipkins having represented New Zealand in mid-2023.
Despite maintaining a cordial relationship with China, New Zealand has begun to adopt a more vocal stance on issues it deems concerning. Notably, New Zealand has expressed reservations about China's recent security agreement with the Solomon Islands, which contradicts existing agreements among Pacific nations to collaborate on defense initiatives rather than engaging external partners.
Peters emphasized the importance of upholding Pacific agreements during discussions with Wang, stressing the need for external parties to respect regional agreements.
While Wang expressed concerns about New Zealand's potential involvement in the AUKUS security pact, Peters reassured that such involvement would not jeopardize New Zealand's trading relationship with China. He emphasized each country's right to determine its defense and security interests without compromising trade relations.
In the realm of international trade, New Zealand seeks to navigate diplomatic challenges while advancing its economic interests, underscoring the importance of maintaining a balanced approach in its foreign policy engagements.
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