NZ Foreign Minister says encouraged China to support regional institutions

28/3/2023 11:24

        New Zealand's foreign minister Nanaia Mahuta said on Tuesday she had encouraged China to support and strengthen Pacific regional institutions and uphold a 22-year old agreement that sees Pacific countries look after their own security needs.
        
        After returning from Beijing, Mahuta told reporters she had encouraged China to support regional Pacific architecture such as the Pacific Islands Forum, the Forum Fisheries Agency and the Biketawa agreement.
        
        The Biketawa Agreement was signed in 2000 and was a declaration by Pacific leaders for coordinating responses to regional crises such as security issues.
        
        "Again, they registered our view, and it was very much acknowledged that New Zealand has a strong interest in the resilience of the Pacific on all levels," Mahuta said.