Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, has today met with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
Mr Luxon said the meeting was a valuable opportunity to reflect on the depth and breadth of the important relationship between the two countries, and to reaffirm bilateral ties.
“I outlined how our strong and innovative economic relationship has grown to cover a broad range of areas. Our trade and economic links are complementary and contribute to prosperity in both countries. These links also directly support New Zealand’s ambition to grow our economy,” Mr Luxon said.
“We discussed the diversity of our people-to-people ties – from business, education, to cultural and science – and how they help build mutual understanding. I also welcomed progress made in increasing aviation links and tourism connections between our two countries.”
Mr Luxon emphasised the importance of open, direct dialogue at the leader level to navigate some challenging regional and global developments.
“Engaging to share perspectives is more important than ever in a rapidly changing world. Where we have different views, our comprehensive and mature relationship allows New Zealand and China to speak frankly and constructively,” he said.
“I raised the importance to New Zealand of the international rules-based system, as well as the key role that China can play in helping to resolve global challenges, such as the war in Ukraine.”
Mr Luxon said he reaffirmed New Zealand’s direct interest in the maintenance of peace, security and prosperity in the Pacific, Aotearoa’s enduring support for Pacific-led priorities, and the central role of the Pacific Islands Forum.
“I also discussed the necessity of a stable region and reduced tensions in the Indo-Pacific,” he said.
While in Beijing, Mr Luxon will also meet with Premier Li Qiang and National People’s Congress Chairman Zhao Leji.
