PM Luxon Urges New Zealand to Seize Opportunities Amid Global Changes

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has emphasized the importance of advancing the country’s national interests in a rapidly changing global environment. Speaking at the conclusion of his week-long trip in Southeast Asia, Luxon described the current geopolitical shifts as both a challenge and an opportunity for New Zealand.

Luxon highlighted that the recent alterations in the trading landscape serve as a “wake-up call” for many nations. He noted a significant momentum among global leaders to uphold the rules-based international order. “We need to make sure that we are doing everything we can to advance our own national interests and make New Zealand’s as resilient as possible,” he stated.

Reassessing Global Trade Dynamics

During his remarks, Luxon pointed out that the world order established over the last 70 years has undergone substantial transformations. He indicated that New Zealand’s historical agility in adapting to global markets, particularly after easing its trading barriers in the late 1980s and early 1990s, has positioned the nation well. “We’ve been used to that over the last 30 years,” he remarked, underscoring New Zealand’s flexibility compared to larger countries that remain constrained by tariffs and subsidies.

Luxon believes that many nations are now realizing the necessity of collaboration in trade. “It’s been quite a good wake-up call that many countries have had to say, ‘Listen, we should be working together more than we have been,'” he added. This sentiment was echoed in discussions Luxon had during the APEC summit, where he outlined the need for reforms in international trade institutions to ensure their relevance in today’s context.

He specifically mentioned an upcoming meeting in Melbourne between trade ministers from the European Union and the CPTPP, describing it as a promising start to fostering connections that previously did not exist. “Who knows where it goes, but at least… we’re trying to innovate,” Luxon stated.

Calls for Institutional Reform

Luxon expressed concerns regarding the efficacy of global organizations like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization. He criticized the UN for its lack of impact in recent conflicts, particularly in Ukraine and Gaza, and warned that if the WTO does not adapt to current realities, it risks losing its influence. “Any organization needs to be constantly evolving,” he stressed, urging for necessary reforms before it is too late.

The Prime Minister’s discussions at the APEC summit revolved around leveraging the forum for innovation in trade architecture. He noted that strong sentiments toward collaboration emerged from various leaders, indicating a collective desire to enhance the rules-based trading system. “Now the real work begins,” he said, emphasizing the importance of actionable outcomes from these discussions.

In a brief encounter with President Xi Jinping, Luxon aimed to ensure that New Zealand remains on China’s radar amidst complex diplomatic relations. He reiterated the engagements he has had with his Chinese counterpart over the past year, asserting that New Zealand’s position is secure.

As he concluded his trip, Luxon laid out five key objectives for the journey: upgrading New Zealand’s relationship with ASEAN, conducting business in Malaysia, enhancing ties with South Korea, advocating for the rules-based trading system, and fostering bilateral relationships with various partners.

He acknowledged the challenges faced back home but remained optimistic about the opportunities available globally. “We are living in the most dynamic region of the world,” Luxon remarked, highlighting New Zealand’s strengths, including its robust social and democratic institutions and abundant natural resources.

“We should have no excuses for why we can’t do exceptionally well for ourselves in the years and decades ahead,” he concluded, underscoring his commitment to navigating New Zealand through the complexities of the current international landscape.