The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has rejected a speech by New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern at the Madrid NATO Summit.
A spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in New Zealand called the comment “misplaced” and “sorry.”
In a statement, he added that such comments were “useless” both to promote mutual trust and to keep bilateral relations “on the right track.”
As a NATO partner, Ardern was invited to a NATO session in which China was first officially recognized as a security threat by the military alliance.
In her speech, she said New Zealand had not participated in events to expand the military alliance, adding that the country had a “very independent” foreign policy.
However, the Prime Minister, referring to the Chinese Communist Party, emphasized that the alliance and its allies need to “stand firmly” in a world rule-based order.
“Here we must respond to the actions we see. We adhere to a rule-based order, call for diplomatic involvement, and call for opposition to human rights abuses anytime, anywhere. We have to raise it, “Ardern said.
Although Ardan’s comments on China’s human rights violations have not been taken up or mentioned at all, embassy spokesmen have argued that the Chinese Communist Party “damages” world peace and is “voluntary.” He said he opposed the country that “imposed” the definition of international rules.
Warning to New Zealand
However, NATO’s latest strategic concept states that Beijing will use economic leverage to “create dependencies and strengthen their influence.” Especially through the Belt and Road Initiative.
“China (People’s Republic of China) has a wide range of political, economic, and military capabilities to enhance its global footprint and project power, while remaining uncertain about its strategy, intent, and military buildup. We are adopting tools, “says the Strategic Concepts Document. ..
Ardern also said at the NATO summit that Indo-Pacific relations should be strengthened through “relationships and economic structure” rather than militarization.
A spokesman for the embassy said China’s relations with Pacific countries were aimed at responding to climate change and improving development.
He argued that if tensions actually escalated in the Pacific, it was not caused by China.
New Zealand received a few warnings, and a spokesman said the administration “wants” to work with New Zealand through “cooperation that benefits both sides” by respecting each other and eliminating differences.
China is New Zealand’s largest trading partner, and small island developing states usually avoid using strong words against the government for fear of economic retaliation.
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Rebecca Zhu is based in Sydney. She focuses on Australian and New Zealand national affairs. Do you have a hint? Contact her at [email protected].