The leaders of New Zealand and China have affirmed the importance of their country’s economic ties.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday in Beijing. This is Luxon’s first visit to China since he took office in November 2023.
Luxon said he wants to maintain healthy trade ties with China, which is his country’s largest trading partner. He cited education and tourism as areas for cooperation.
Meanwhile, Xi noted the two nations share a long relationship that has delivered tangible benefits to both sides.
But differences remain between the two countries. China has been lobbying New Zealand in its efforts to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership or CPTPP.
New Zealand is already a signatory of the pact, but China’s move puts it in a difficult position as other members have reportedly raised concerns Beijing cannot meet the agreement’s high standards.
The meeting also came one day after New Zealand announced it will halt millions of dollars in financial aid to the Cook Islands.
The island chain signed a strategic partnership agreement with China without telling New Zealand. The two Pacific nations are obliged to consult each other on defense and security matters.