The Chinese Foreign Ministry recently disclosed an upcoming visit by New Zealand’s Trade Minister to China this April for trade talks, aiming to advance the extensive consensus on deepening economic cooperation across diverse sectors. This initiative follows Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to New Zealand on Monday, setting the stage for expanded bilateral relations.
During Wang’s visit, the nations agreed on engaging in inter-governmental dialogues covering foreign policy, trade, and climate change, demonstrating a shared commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding. Furthermore, both countries pledged to facilitate personnel exchanges through innovative measures, emphasizing the importance of strengthening communication.
The visit by New Zealand’s Trade Minister intends to continue these dialogues, focusing on high-level exchanges and dynamic communication concerning critical agreements. This includes discussions on China’s involvement in the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, which are key to promoting economic integration and digital cooperation.
Marking the decade-long comprehensive strategic partnership between New Zealand and China, both nations anticipate celebrating a decade of progress and collaboration. The Chinese Foreign Ministry conveyed China’s eagerness to collaborate with New Zealand on achieving additional milestones in their bilateral relationship. This ambition seeks to sustain their leading status among China’s relationships with developed nations while exploring new avenues for development.
A pivotal element of this enhanced relationship is the proactive implementation of the updated China-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Initiating discussions on the service trade’s negative list aims to propel bilateral cooperation to unprecedented levels. Additionally, China’s invitation for New Zealand to continue participating in the Belt and Road Initiative promises to strengthen economic and infrastructural links.
Central to their discussions is a mutual resolve to combat the Cold War mentality, unilateralism, and protectionism. Both countries are united in their dedication to fortifying solidarity and cooperation, championing a forward-thinking approach to human progress.
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