Foreign Minister Winston Peters should explain why New Zealand was absent from a joint statement by his ministerial counterparts from the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and the United States on China’s proposal to impose strict new laws on Hong Kong, ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾’s Foreign Affairs spokesperson Gerry Brownlee says.
“Reading the statement it is hard to disagree with the language or sentiment of New Zealand’s long-standing diplomatic partners.
“In fact, the statement broadly aligns with New Zealand’s brief comments to date on China’s proposals. So why were we absent in sending a unified message to China alongside partners with shared interests and values?
“New Zealand’s relationship with China is certainly unique, and China has always respected our measured frankness when we take a different view on issues.
“Whether this Government believes we can no longer take those measured positions alongside others is something Mr Peters should explain.”
