Protecting the Pacific Ocean’s Peace

Amid growing Chinese influence, Winston Peters, New Zealand’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister, emphasized the need to safeguard the Pacific Ocean from becoming a military battleground. This warning came just ahead of a meeting with Australia’s foreign minister, Penny Wong.

Peters expressed that while New Zealand values its relationship with China, the dynamics of the region require a cautious approach. “The reality is that as the geographical shape of the world changes, the Pacific doesn’t want to be the basis for competition,” he noted, reinforcing the Pacific’s identity as a “Region of Peace.”

This year has seen New Zealand engaged in rising tensions due to China’s activities in the Pacific, particularly following a controversial agreement with the Cook Islands, which has raised diplomatic concerns for New Zealand. Additionally, China’s military drills near Wellington have added to the unease.

On another front, uncertainty has enveloped the region due to various factors, including U.S. tariffs and cuts to foreign aid announced during former President Trump’s administration. Peters described this period as “the most uncertain time of the last 79-80 years,” with New Zealand focused on maintaining strong relationships in the Pacific.

Over the past three years, China has been forging security and policing arrangements with nations in the Pacific, prompting Western countries to worry about the growing Chinese influence. Beijing has provided substantial aid and infrastructure to many Pacific island nations, which complicates the regional dynamics.

Earlier in the year, tensions escalated when the Cook Islands disclosed details about its partnership with China, leading New Zealand to express “significant concerns” due to the deal’s lack of transparency. The Cook Islands have enjoyed a “free association” with New Zealand for decades, and there are around 17,000 citizens with New Zealand citizenship, underlining the ongoing cooperative defense and security dialogue between the two.

In late February, New Zealand and Australia officials reported that China was conducting live exercises in international waters nearby, prompting commercial airlines to alter their flight paths on short notice.

New Zealand, historically being careful in its approach to challenging China, tends to adopt a more conciliatory tone compared to partners like Australia or the U.S., Canada, and the UK. Still, Peters has expressed unease regarding an agreement with China, particularly after its recent military training activities.

“We have made sure they understand what our position is,” he remarked, reaffirming the strength of New Zealand’s ties with China. “If you can’t speak to them openly, that’s not a great relationship, but we have a good relationship… because we can express our thoughts.”

The upcoming discussions in Adelaide between Peters and Wong will prioritize Pacific defense, security, and development. Peters stressed the importance of collaboration with Australia, emphasizing the need for face-to-face interactions over virtual meetings. He mentioned that personal visits have been essential for strengthening relations among New Zealand, Australia, and their Pacific neighbors.

In an extensive tour over the past 18 months, aside from Kiliberty, Peters visited all Pacific Island Forum member nations. Meanwhile, Wong is scheduled to visit Vanuatu, Tonga, and Fiji soon, marking her first independent trip following her party’s recent electoral victory.