Winston Peters Fires Back at China’s Defamation Threat
There is a verbal conflict between ex-Australian Foreign Minister and New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister over AUKUS.
New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters remains steadfast in his criticism of ex-Australian Foreign Minister Bob Carr’s views on Beijing and the threat of a defamation lawsuit.
During a speech to the NZ China Council, he condemned Beijing’s human rights violations while recognizing New Zealand’s reliance on trade with China.
Peters defended his remarks calling Carr a “puppet” of the CCP, stating it did not harm the bilateral relationship and asserting his right to freedom of expression despite the defamation letter from Carr’s solicitors.
Regarding the AUKUS disagreement, Carr’s comments about New Zealand’s involvement in “Pillar II” sparked the dispute, with him labeling it as questionable. Peters expressed interest in New Zealand joining AUKUS, emphasizing military interoperability with Australia.
He highlighted the regional security threats faced by New Zealand and the importance of joining AUKUS for military collaboration with its ally, Australia.
Peters warned of security concerns in the Pacific region due to increased Chinese engagement, emphasizing the need for stability and adherence to international human rights standards.
Despite New Zealand’s significant trade relationship with China, Peters stressed the importance of maintaining a balanced and productive trade partnership.
He referenced ongoing trade between the two countries and reiterated New Zealand’s right to pursue its own foreign policy decisions, regardless of any concerns expressed by Beijing.
