As global economic dynamics shift, China and New Zealand continue to deepen their partnership, anchored by a pioneering free trade agreement (FTA) and mutual commitments to sustainable growth. In an exclusive interview with CMG's Wang Guan at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference, former New Zealand Prime Minister Jenny Shipley reflected on the nations' evolving ties and their significance in an uncertain world.
Pioneering Partnership
Shipley, who spearheaded New Zealand's groundbreaking FTA talks with China in the early 2000s, emphasized the agreement's lasting impact. "Being the first developed economy to sign such a pact with China was transformative," she noted. Today, China remains New Zealand's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding NZ$40 billion annually.
Kiwifruit Connection
The former leader highlighted symbolic successes like New Zealand's kiwifruit exports, which now account for over 30% of China's market share. "These tangible outcomes show how complementary economies can thrive through trust," she said, underscoring opportunities in agriculture, green tech, and education.
Leadership in Uncertain Times
Praising President Xi Jinping's vision for "peaceful, shared growth," Shipley called for sustained dialogue amid global challenges. "Calm leadership matters most when tensions rise," she remarked, advocating for expanded people-to-people exchanges and climate collaboration.
As both nations prepare to mark 20 years of their FTA in 2024, Shipley's insights offer a roadmap for balancing economic pragmatism with long-term strategic trust.
