PM Christopher Luxon concludes key diplomatic mission to Brussels

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has concluded a key diplomatic mission to Brussels where he held high-level talks with leaders of the European Union, reinforcing the growing cooperation between the two democratic partners. During the visit, Prime Minister Luxon met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa, with discussions focused on trade, global security, and scientific collaboration.

Reinforcing Strategic Partnerships

Calling the European Union “one of New Zealand’s most trusted partners,” Mr Luxon emphasized the deepening political and economic relationship between Wellington and Brussels. The leaders reaffirmed their mutual commitment to supporting the rules-based international order at a time when global stability is under threat.

“President von der Leyen and I discussed our shared values and commitment to the international rules-based system – something that’s more important than ever given the pressure on global security and prosperity,” said Luxon.

Both sides expressed their concern over rising geopolitical tensions, especially in regions like the Indo-Pacific, Ukraine, and the Middle East, underlining the importance of multilateral cooperation and democratic solidarity.

Expanding Trade Through the NZ-EU FTA

The leaders also reviewed progress on the implementation of the EU-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, which entered into force recently. Since the agreement was signed, New Zealand’s exports to the EU – a high-value consumer market – have increased by more than $1 billion, marking a 25% growth in just one year.

“We know there is still scope to significantly increase this further with our premium New Zealand products,” said Mr Luxon, citing opportunities in agri-food, clean tech, and high-value manufacturing.

The FTA eliminates tariffs on 91% of New Zealand’s current exports to the EU, and upon full implementation, that will rise to 97%. EU exports to New Zealand also benefit from improved market access, creating a win-win scenario for both economies.

Collaboration in Research and Innovation

Scientific cooperation featured prominently in the discussions, particularly New Zealand’s participation in Horizon Europe – the EU’s €95.5 billion research and innovation programme. New Zealand is the first non-European country to have full association status with Horizon Europe, enabling its researchers to apply for and lead projects across a variety of sectors.

Currently, New Zealand scientists are collaborating on 17 major projects ranging from hydrogen energy storage to advanced medical technologies like bioprinting.

“By joining forces, we are driving scientific progress and innovation that delivers economic benefit for both our regions,” Mr Luxon noted.

Honouring Shared History

While in Belgium, Mr Luxon visited several New Zealand memorials across Flanders Fields, paying tribute to the thousands of Kiwi soldiers who fought and died on the Western Front during the First World War. The solemn visit was a reminder of the shared history and enduring bonds between New Zealand and Europe.

“Honouring our fallen in these fields of remembrance is a powerful reminder of the price paid for the values we hold dear – democracy, peace and cooperation,” Mr Luxon remarked.

Next Stop: Netherlands and NATO

Following his engagements in Brussels, Prime Minister Luxon has now travelled to the Netherlands where he is scheduled to meet with newly appointed Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof. After that, he will attend the NATO Summit in The Hague, where security challenges in the Indo-Pacific, transatlantic relations, and global defence partnerships are expected to dominate the agenda.

Mr Luxon's European visit underscores New Zealand’s intent to remain a proactive and engaged partner in global affairs, advancing its interests through diplomacy, trade, and collaboration.