AUCKLAND, New Zealand: Chinese Premier Li Qiang committed to enhancing trade cooperation during his visit to New Zealand, emphasizing that differences between the two nations “should not become a chasm.”
Li’s six-day tour includes stops in New Zealand and Australia, both of which have voiced concerns over China’s growing influence in the South Pacific.
It is natural that we don’t always see eye-to-eye with each other on everything stated Li after meeting New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon adding but such differences should not become a chasm that should block exchanges and cooperation. Li, second only to President Xi Jinping in China’s political hierarchy, is the most senior Chinese official to visit New Zealand or Australia since 2017. Prime Minister Luxon mentioned that “regional issues that are important to both countries” were discussed, reflecting New Zealand’s increasing willingness to criticize Beijing’s activities in the South Pacific.
