China and New Zealand are a ‘force for stability’ in a turbulent world, says Foreign Minister Wang Yi
- Wang hails the strength of the relationship at the start of a trip to the region that will also include a visit to Australia
- Meanwhile, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says the country wanted to build relations with ‘renewed energy and renewed urgency’
China’s ties with New Zealand had been “at the forefront of China’s relations with developed countries”, which Wang said was “a valuable asset to be cherished” by the two sides.
“China regards New Zealand as a rational and mature partner, and the relationship between China and New Zealand is strategic and long-term,” Wang said.
“We are willing to work with New Zealand to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership … cross new benchmarks, create an upgraded version of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and build a peaceful and different relationship between the countries.”
Wang said China was willing to be a “reliable strategic partner” to New Zealand, especially in the fields of education, technology innovation, infrastructure and export, areas that Wellington has considered as priorities for development.
