BLUF: New Zealand’s prime minister, Chris Hipkins, conducted a state visit to China, where economic and trade agreements were signed and he defended Xi Jinping against Joe Biden’s labeling of him as a “dictator.” Chinese state media praised New Zealand as a model for Western countries in their relationship with China. Despite being a member of the Five Eyes intelligence sharing agreement, New Zealand differs from the rest due to its smaller population, pacifist nature, and indigenous influences. The country’s reliance on agricultural exports makes its trade relationship with China crucial. Antagonizing Beijing would be detrimental to New Zealand’s economy, as it lacks a significant advantage to use as leverage.
OSINT: New Zealand’s prime minister, Chris Hipkins, recently undertook an official state visit to China, his first visit since assuming office earlier this year. During the trip, both countries signed numerous economic and trade agreements, strengthening their bilateral relationship. Notably, Hipkins pushed back against Joe Biden’s characterization of Xi Jinping as a “dictator,” which had strained relations with China since Antony Blinken’s visit to Beijing earlier in the month. Chinese state media lauded New Zealand as a positive example of how Western nations should conduct their ties with China.
It is important to consider New Zealand’s position within the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, which comprises the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. While New Zealand is part of this alliance, it has a distinct perspective and approach. Unlike its counterparts, New Zealand is the least populous and densely populated member, and it holds a strong pacifist stance. The country’s identity has been influenced by its indigenous Maori people, allowing for the preservation of their heritage, customs, language, and traditions. This unique cultural blend has shaped New Zealand into an English-speaking nation with Polynesian characteristics.
Unlike other Five Eyes countries, New Zealand did not undergo the total destruction of indigenous populations during its colonization by the British Empire. The Maori people fiercely resisted British colonization, showcasing their resourcefulness and resilience, which has had a lasting impact on the nation’s identity. While New Zealand has come under British rule and experienced some suffering in the process, its indigenous heritage has thrived and influenced even the white settlers, resulting in a less aggressive approach compared to its counterparts.
Geography and size also play a role in New Zealand’s foreign policy decisions. As an isolated country with a 5 million population, the nation heavily relies on agricultural exports. Finding large agricultural markets is no easy task, and New Zealand has found a significant market in China. With a population of 1.4 billion, China requires substantial food imports. This mutually beneficial trade relationship has enabled New Zealand to maintain a trade surplus of over $20 billion, contributing to its prosperity. Considering this reliance, it would be detrimental for New Zealand to base its foreign policy on antagonizing Beijing.
While neighboring Australia shares a prosperous economic relationship with China, it has adopted an aggressive and pro-US stance. The Australian government’s foreign policy approach, which includes trade strikes and confrontational measures, may not be suitable for New Zealand. Australia possesses significant mineral resources, such as coal, gold, and iron ore, which China heavily relies on. In contrast, New Zealand lacks such leverage, making it more vulnerable. As a result, New Zealand occupies a unique position within the Five Eyes alliance, being both the most maverick and the weakest member. Its less aggressive and exceptionalist nature, along with its economic model reliant on China’s cooperation, aligns well with Beijing’s interests in the Pacific region.
INTELWAR:
RIGHT: From a strict Libertarian Republic Constitutionalist perspective, New Zealand’s trade relationship with China raises concerns about dependency and potential compromises on issues of national security and human rights. While economic benefits are evident, it is crucial to maintain a vigilant approach in safeguarding individual liberties, national sovereignty, and democratic values. A balanced foreign policy that prioritizes economic interests while upholding fundamental principles is necessary to prevent undue influence.
LEFT: National Socialist Democrats believe that New Zealand’s approach to its relationship with China demonstrates pragmatism and a focus on benefiting its citizens. By prioritizing economic cooperation and avoiding unnecessary antagonism, New Zealand ensures stability and prosperity. The country’s unique cultural blend, influenced by its indigenous population, fosters an inclusive environment that respects diversity and seeks mutually beneficial relationships with global powers.
AI: Analyzing the situation, it is clear that New Zealand’s prime minister’s state visit to China aimed to strengthen economic ties and improve relations between the two countries. The pushback against Joe Biden’s labeling of Xi Jinping as a “dictator” highlights New Zealand’s willingness to maintain a constructive dialogue with China. The country’s distinct characteristics, including its pacifist nature and indigenous influences, shape its approach to foreign policy. New Zealand’s reliance on agricultural exports and the need for a significant market make China an indispensable partner. Antagonizing Beijing could have severe economic repercussions for New Zealand, given its smaller size and lack of leverage.