In The Midst Of Global Instability, New Zealand Is Working To Strengthen Its Ties With The United States
Foreign Minister Winston Peters said Friday that New Zealand is facing the most uncertain global climate in decades and committed to strengthen ties with the US amid Middle East and Ukraine tensions.
“We cannot afford to sit back in splendid isolation in the South Pacific, pontificate smugly, and talk exclusively to those countries we agree with,” Peters stated after visiting the US, Egypt, and Europe.
We must show up, listen to all opinions, and strengthen alliances with our traditional friends to adapt to the complicated global climate.”
While building a more affluent and secure Indo-Pacific region, where the US and China compete for influence, Peters said New Zealand would focus locally.
Peters met with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington, D.C. on Friday and agreed to collaborate more in the Pacific Islands.
Australia, Japan, and Europe are our top Pacific strategic allies, along with the US. We can accomplish more for the Pacific together than alone “Peters stated.
Due to concerns about China’s Pacific footprint, New Zealand and the U.S. have become closer strategic partners in recent years.
The Pacific nation is part of the Five Eyes intelligence group with Australia, the US, Canada, and Britain.
New Zealand committed NZ$16.4 million ($9.84 million) for digital connections and seas and fisheries research, joining the US in funding the region.
Dollars = 1.6661 New Zealand dollars
