New Zealand: We Need the U.S. Actively by Our Side to Protect the Indo-Pacific Region

New Zealand: We Need the U.S. Actively by Our Side to Protect the Indo-Pacific Region
Honolulu, April 13 (Reuters):

New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters said on Sunday that his country needs the United States as an "active" partner in the Indo-Pacific region, following efforts to strengthen ties with the Trump administration during a visit to Washington last month.

Peters stated, "New Zealand wants—and in fact needs—the United States to contribute as an active, reasonable, and constructive partner in the Indo-Pacific region." He made the remarks during a week-long Pacific tour in Hawaii.

New Zealand and the United States are working together to counter China's growing influence in the Pacific. However, some lawmakers in New Zealand have expressed concern over how changes in U.S. administration and the suspension of aid funding might affect the region.

Peters said he held discussions in Washington with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, Director of the U.S. Foreign Assistance Office Peter Marocco, and several other administrative and congressional representatives. Following these discussions, Peters noted that the relationship between New Zealand and the United States stands on a "solid foundation" and described the current climate as "the most strategically challenging environment in at least half a century."

“We look forward to more constructive dialogue in the coming days,” Peters added.

His comments reflect New Zealand’s optimism about strengthening its relationship with the United States, especially amid China's expanding influence in the region.