New Zealand Raises Concerns Over China’s Military Drills and Pacific Deals

New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters has expressed concerns over China's recent live-fire drills in the Tasman Sea, criticizing the lack of prior notice given to New Zealand. Speaking in Beijing after meetings with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Vice President Han Zheng, Peters called the oversight a failure in the two nations' special relationship.

New Zealand and Australia reported that China conducted live-fire exercises in international waters between their countries with minimal notice, disrupting commercial flights. Three Chinese ships were spotted in Australia’s exclusive economic zone near Tasmania before moving west, according to the New Zealand Defence Force.

Peters also raised concerns over China's missile test last September near French Polynesia, which lacked sufficient warning for Pacific nations. He stated that China is now considering giving earlier notice for future naval drills.

Another point of contention was China’s recent agreements with the Cook Islands, which New Zealand claims were signed without proper consultation. The Cook Islands, a self-governing nation in free association with New Zealand, shares citizenship and security arrangements with Wellington. Peters emphasized that China should recognize this constitutional relationship.

Last week, Peters called for a "reset" in New Zealand’s relationship with the Cook Islands due to its growing ties with Beijing. The agreements cover multiple sectors, including infrastructure, fisheries, disaster management, and seabed mining, raising concerns over China's expanding influence in the Pacific.

During their discussions, Wang Yi highlighted the importance of economic cooperation, suggesting partnerships in artificial intelligence and the green economy. With China accounting for a quarter of New Zealand’s exports in 2024, trade remains a key aspect of their relationship despite diplomatic tensions.