Chinese Premier Li Qiang is visiting New Zealand, where he met with his counterpart, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. It is the first time in seven years for a Chinese premier to visit New Zealand.
In their talks on Thursday, Li and Luxon agreed to strengthen economic ties. But Li raised concerns about New Zealand’s security cooperation with the United States and its allies.
A joint statement says the two sides will hold regular discussions in areas such as foreign affairs, economics and defense. It says New Zealand noted China’s application to join a major trans-Pacific trade deal, known as CPTPP. New Zealand is already one of the bloc’s 12 members.
In a news conference, Luxon stressed the importance of economic ties with China, as Beijing is his country’s largest trading partner.
He added that the two leaders discussed regional and international challenges. Luxon said, “China’s view’s and actions on these matters are important, and more rather than less direct engagement with China is needed on these issues.”
Li said the countries should seek common ground, while respecting each other’s differences. He said: “Both sides need to abide by the basic norms governing international relations, such as not interfering in one another’s internal affairs. And we should promote mutual understanding and tolerance through dialogue on an equal footing.”
Luxon said Li raised concerns about New Zealand’s possible cooperation in a security framework with the US, Britain and Australia, known as AUKUS.
New Zealand is also a part of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance.
Li’s visit is seen as an attempt to counterbalance US influence in the region. Beijing and Washington remain at odds over a range of issues, including security and advanced technologies.
Li is set to visit Australia later this week.