PM Luxon Meets President Jinping to Deepen Bilateral Ties, Discuss Global Issues

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon met with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the historic Great Hall of the People in Beijing during an official visit aimed at deepening bilateral ties, enhancing trade cooperation, and addressing key regional and global challenges. The high-level diplomatic engagement underscores the significance both countries place on maintaining a stable, comprehensive, and forward-looking partnership.

A Maturing and Multifaceted Relationship

“This was a valuable opportunity to reflect on the depth and breadth of our important relationship, and to reaffirm our bilateral ties,” said Prime Minister Luxon following the meeting.

In his remarks, Mr. Luxon highlighted the evolving nature of the New Zealand–China relationship, noting its development into a broad-based strategic partnership covering trade, investment, tourism, education, science, and cultural exchange. He emphasized that these links are mutually beneficial, with China continuing to be New Zealand’s largest trading partner.

“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 stated.

Enhanced People-to-People and Sectoral Connections

The leaders also reviewed ongoing developments in people-to-people ties, including business exchanges, educational collaboration, and scientific partnerships. Luxon welcomed progress in restoring aviation routes and expanding tourism, as both countries continue post-pandemic efforts to reinvigorate connectivity and rebuild in-person engagement.

“Such exchanges foster mutual understanding and trust and enrich the social and economic fabric of both our nations,” Luxon said.

Dialogue Amid a Complex Global Context

Luxon acknowledged that despite a strong relationship, New Zealand and China hold differing perspectives on certain international issues. He stressed the value of open and candid dialogue at the leadership level, especially during a period of heightened geopolitical complexity.

“In a rapidly changing world, engaging to share perspectives is more important than ever. Where we have different views, our comprehensive and mature relationship allows New Zealand and China to speak frankly and constructively,” Luxon said.

He raised the importance of upholding the international rules-based system, expressing New Zealand’s view that stability, peace, and sovereignty must guide global engagement. Luxon also discussed China’s potential role in helping to resolve global conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, and urged diplomatic efforts toward peace.

Focus on the Indo-Pacific and Pacific Region

The meeting also addressed regional dynamics, with Luxon reaffirming New Zealand’s commitment to peace and prosperity in the Pacific and the Indo-Pacific region more broadly. He reiterated support for Pacific-led development priorities and emphasized the central coordinating role of the Pacific Islands Forum.

“We have a direct interest in the security and prosperity of our Pacific neighborhood,” Luxon said. “A stable Indo-Pacific, with reduced tensions and increased cooperation, is essential for regional and global well-being.”

Continued Diplomatic Engagement

In addition to his meeting with President Xi, Luxon is scheduled to hold further discussions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and National People’s Congress Chairman Zhao Leji, where economic cooperation, regional security, and multilateral engagement are expected to remain high on the agenda.

Luxon’s visit underscores the importance of sustained dialogue and engagement with key partners, particularly in Asia. As New Zealand navigates its foreign policy in an increasingly multipolar world, maintaining robust and principled relationships with major powers like China remains a strategic priority.