New Zealand: New Zealand’s Foreign Affairs Minister Ms. Nanaia Mahuta stated that she had voiced her concerns regarding the South China Sea and the tensions in the Taiwan Strait.

In a statement, Ms. Mahuta added that during her discussion with Chinese Foreign Affairs Minister Mr. Qin Gang, she noted New Zealand’s profound concerns regarding the human rights situation in Xinjiang and the loss of rights and freedoms in Hong Kong.

The Foreign Minister raised worries over developments in the South China Sea and rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia was once again condemned by New Zealand, according to Ms. Mahuta. Both China, a significant supporter of Russia, and NATO have been criticised for weakening international stability.

Ms. Mahuta, the first New Zealand minister to visit China since 2019 on a four-day visit, arrived there on Wednesday. While there, she met Wang Yi, China’s top diplomat, as well as business and women leaders.

In the intelligence-sharing cooperation known as the Five Eyes, which also includes the United States, Australia, Britain, and Canada, New Zealand has long been regarded as the voice of moderation in China. However, with the signing of a security agreement between China and the Solomon Islands, New Zealand’s stance on security and China’s expanding involvement in the South Pacific have become more aggressive.

In light of China’s military development in the South China Sea, New Zealand has repeatedly expressed alarm about the potential militarization of the Pacific.

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