In a significant move, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is making his first official visit to New Zealand and Australia in seven years, invited by New Zealand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Winston Peters, and Australia's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong.
During this visit, John Key, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, shared his insights on the enduring friendship between China and New Zealand. Key emphasized that New Zealand was the first Western country to recognize China as a market economy and the pioneer among developed nations to negotiate and sign a free trade agreement with China.
Reflecting on his tenure, Key recalled numerous meetings with Chinese officials and multiple visits to China, which played a pivotal role in strengthening bilateral relations. His efforts laid a robust foundation for the ongoing collaboration between the two nations.
Today, as the chairman of the Investments Committee at Stonewood Key China, John Key continues to champion trade cooperation between China and New Zealand, particularly in the realm of new and sustainable energy. He announced his plans to visit China again in July, aiming to create more investment opportunities and foster economic growth for both countries.
Reference(s):
We Talk: Former NZ PM's take on China-New Zealand friendship
cgtn.com
