Deepening Trade, Navigating Complexities, and Seeking Economic Growth

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon commenced his official visit to China on Tuesday, with the aim of bolstering cooperation and trade relations. The visit, scheduled from June 17 to 20, was undertaken at the invitation of Premier Li Qiang.

Luxon highlighted China's significance as New Zealand's primary trading partner, emphasizing its vital role in the nation's economic narrative. He noted that over 20% of New Zealand's exports are directed to China, indicating potential for further expansion. Accompanying him was a delegation of senior business leaders, reflecting the government's strategy to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and increase wages.

The trip, encompassing visits to Shanghai and Beijing, occurs during what Luxon describes as a "complex" yet "mature" phase in the bilateral relationship, amidst a challenging international climate. The primary focus of the visit is to strengthen economic and trade cooperation between the two nations. New Zealand aims to increase exports to the Chinese market and welcomes more Chinese tourists and students.

Luxon has emphasized the visit's focus on expanding trade, which exceeded $38 billion last year, as well as strengthening educational and tourism ties, and maximizing opportunities for New Zealand businesses. The two countries share close economic and trade cooperation with strong complementarity. There is potential to enhance the quality of the China-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement through institutional frameworks.

Ahead of the visit, New Zealand announced a trial visa waiver program for Chinese passport holders traveling from Australia with valid visas, allowing them to visit for up to three months. Prior to the visit, a group of former politicians published an open letter urging Luxon to adopt a less "adversarial stance" towards China. Luxon described the relationship as "calm, considered, thoughtful, consistent, predictable."

The current New Zealand government has faced external pressure from the US and other Western nations on diplomatic issues, including engagement with China. The open letter reflects the desire of New Zealand society to view China and its development rationally. Mainstream opinion in New Zealand favors steady growth in China-New Zealand relations.

China has consistently pursued principles of mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit in its cooperation with countries worldwide, including New Zealand. There have been no major conflicts between the two nations, and both share the responsibility of strengthening cooperation to promote economic development, regional peace, and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.