CHINA has signed cooperative arrangements with New Zealand during a visit by Prime Minister Chris Hipkins aimed at improving market access for a country that has long maintained a conciliatory approach towards China.
Despite some warnings at home about an over-reliance on the world’s second-largest economy, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins focused his week-long visit to China with aims on increasing New Zealand’s exports.
The two sides agreed in a joint declaration to strengthen trade and expand cooperation in areas such as e-commerce and the green economy, and establish a dialogue mechanism on new energy vehicles.
In areas of diplomacy and defense, both countries also agreed to strengthen cooperation on food security and agriculture.
In recent years, China’s relations with the United States have been severely strained, while ties with Australia and Canada have also been unsteady at times over various differences.
However, New Zealand has historically taken a civil approach towards China and upgraded its free trade pact with the Asian giant last year.
In a meeting on Tuesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping told Mr. Hipkins that China had always treated New Zealand as a “friend and partner” and was ready to promote a steady and sustained comprehensive strategic partnership.
While maintaining positive ties with China, New Zealand does raise concerns about issues such as human rights and militarization of the Pacific, as Beijing seeks to extend its influence in the region.
