New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters is set to visit Beijing on Tuesday, where he will discuss strained relations with China due to the country’s recent live-fire exercises in the Tasman Sea. The exercises, which were conducted without giving significant notice to nearby commercial airlines, have raised concerns about China’s military activity in international waters.
Peters’ visit aims to address issues such as the Cook Islands’ deal with China and trade between the two nations. He will also engage in talks with senior Chinese leaders, including Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Peters has expressed his concern over the lack of advance notice for the live-fire exercises, which are on a busy air route.
China’s foreign ministry did not respond to a request for comment on the matter. The New Zealand Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, stated that while China is compliant with international law, the issue lies in the limited notice given for the exercise. Peters will discuss the bilateral relationship, Pacific regional issues, and global concerns with Chinese officials during his visit.
The visit marks a significant trip for Peters, who includes stops in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Mongolia, and South Korea. The New Zealand Contemporary China Research Centre has stated that questions around challenging issues such as the Cook Islands deal will be raised, alongside discussions on high-level visits and trade.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/new-zealand-foreign-minister-question-chinese-naval-activity-beijing-visit-2025-02-24