Winston Peters to Represent New Zealand at 80th UN General Assembly in New York

Foreign Minister Winston Peters will travel to New York this weekend to lead New Zealand’s delegation at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), marking a significant milestone in the history of the UN and in New Zealand’s ongoing role on the world stage.

Reflecting on 80 Years of the United Nations

The anniversary of the UN’s founding provides an opportunity to reflect on the state of the international, rules-based system. Peters underscored New Zealand’s long-standing commitment to multilateralism.

“New Zealand was a founding member of the United Nations and we have always argued that all states – no matter their size – should have a say in how the world operates,” he said.

However, he acknowledged the strain the organisation is under. “There is no doubt that the scale, complexity and persistence of the challenges facing the world are putting immense stress on the United Nations. New Zealand, working with partners, needs to continue to press for reforms to ensure the United Nations can rise to the world’s challenges as humanity enters the second quarter of the 21st century.”

Engaging on Global Security Challenges

During his time in New York, Peters will participate in a range of high-level events. A key focus will be his attendance at the Two State Solution conference, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, reflecting the international community’s search for peace in the Middle East.

He will also engage in thematic and geographic discussions on pressing global issues, including conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, South Sudan, and Myanmar. These conflicts, Peters noted, will “loom large as world leaders gather” and will be central to New Zealand’s foreign policy consultations.

Bilateral and Multilateral Engagements

Alongside attending multilateral sessions, Peters will hold bilateral meetings with a range of foreign ministers and senior UN officials. These conversations will help strengthen New Zealand’s diplomatic ties and provide insights into how other nations are tackling global crises.

He will also deliver New Zealand’s national statement to the General Assembly, reaffirming the country’s commitment to peace, international law, and the rules-based order.

Palestine and New Zealand’s Position

One of the most sensitive issues Peters will engage with is the question of Palestinian recognition. New Zealand has been carefully considering its approach for months, balancing humanitarian concerns, regional stability, and international law.

“Next week’s engagements will help us to finalise New Zealand’s position on this important issue, drawing on the latest available information,” Peters said. His meetings will provide valuable context for how other nations are positioning themselves on the matter.

Travel Details

Peters departs New Zealand for New York on Sunday, 21 September and will return on Tuesday, 30 September. His schedule reflects New Zealand’s active role in shaping international discussions at a time of heightened geopolitical tension.

Looking Ahead

As the UN marks eight decades since its creation, Peters’ presence highlights New Zealand’s enduring role as a defender of small states’ voices, a promoter of international cooperation, and an advocate for reform to ensure the UN can meet the challenges of the 21st century.