In a pivotal meeting during the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, Chinese President Xi Jinping and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon reaffirmed their commitment to a decade-long comprehensive strategic partnership.
Reflecting on the past ten years, Xi highlighted the steady and robust development of China-New Zealand relations, emphasizing the mutual benefits that have significantly enhanced the well-being of both nations' peoples. \"Our relationship has grown with sound and steady momentum, which is well worth cherishing,\" Xi stated.
The leaders underscored the importance of viewing each other as partners and opportunities rather than challenges or threats. With no historical grievances or fundamental conflicts of interest, both nations are poised to manage differences calmly and practically, ensuring that such variations do not define their relationship.
Xi called for building a bilateral relationship grounded in mutual respect, tolerance, cooperation, and common development. This vision aims to contribute to the prosperity of both countries and foster stronger ties through various sectors, including youth, media, and academic exchanges.
Prime Minister Luxon echoed these sentiments, acknowledging China's significant role and the strong bond that has developed between the two peoples over the past decade. He reiterated New Zealand's commitment to deepening the strategic partnership, adhering firmly to the one-China policy, and enhancing cooperation in areas such as economy, trade, green development, and climate change.
The leaders also discussed the importance of multilateral frameworks like the United Nations, APEC, and the World Trade Organization in safeguarding regional peace and stability. Both nations expressed readiness to collaborate within these platforms to promote freedom, openness, and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties, China has included New Zealand in its visa-free policy, encouraging more New Zealanders to work and travel in China. This move aims to solidify the foundation of friendship between the peoples of the two countries.
Looking ahead, both China and New Zealand are optimistic about the future of their partnership, envisioning continued growth and collaboration that benefits not only their own nations but also contributes to broader regional and global stability.
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Xi urges China, New Zealand to regard each other as partners
cgtn.com
