New Zealand’s foreign minister praises China ties, damps fears of protectionism
Veteran politician says two nations will focus on sustainable development, peoples’ well-being; defends Beijing’s record on human rights
New Zealand will develop a close relationship with China, Foreign Minister Winston Peters said on Tuesday, putting to rest fears that his protectionist campaign rhetoric would fuel tension with a key trading partner.
The 40-year political veteran played a decisive role in bringing the centre-left Labour Party to power in October after an inconclusive election left his nationalist New Zealand First party holding the balance of power.
But many in China see New Zealand as a model for the Asian giant’s relationship with Western countries, with President Xi Jinping last year calling the depth of the bond “unprecedented”.
“Our record of trade and economic firsts is dramatic,” Peters, who is also deputy prime minister, told academics and diplomats in Wellington, setting out his stance on China for the first time since taking office.
“New Zealand will continue to seek closer cooperation with China as both countries focus on sustainable economic development and the well-being of our peoples,” Peters said, giving a complimentary account of 45 years of diplomatic ties.
Peters had campaigned on a protectionist platform, vowing to slash immigration and curb foreign investment, which fuelled concern he could anger the Asian giant, the country’s top destination for goods exports.
