NZ PM Raises Security Concerns During China Visit

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon made his first visit to China since taking office, seeking to strengthen trade while addressing security and geopolitical differences with Beijing. Luxon met with President Xi Jinping in Beijing, where they discussed trade, regional stability, and global issues such as the war in Ukraine. The visit followed New Zealand's suspension of aid to the Cook Islands due to concerns over its growing ties with China, reflecting wider unease about China's influence in the Pacific. Disagreement also arose between New Zealand and China over whether a new Auckland-Shanghai flight should be considered part of the Belt and Road Initiative. Public opinion in New Zealand towards China has recently cooled, influenced by China's military activities and engagement in the Pacific region. The visit highlighted both ongoing cooperation and emerging tensions in the bilateral relationship.