China-New Zealand ties at historic high

(160526) — WELLINGTON, May 26, 2016 (Xinhua) — Liu Qibao (L, front), head of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, meets with New Zealand Prime Minister John Key (R, front) in Wellington, New Zealand, May 24, 2016. Liu is here on a three-day official visit to New Zealand starting on May 24. (Xinhua/Qin Qing)

By Li Feng and Bao Jie from People’s Daily

Relations between China and New Zealand are at their best since the two countries established diplomatic relations 44 years ago, said Liu Qibao, head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, during his three-day trip to New Zealand.

The two countries should upgrade their comprehensive strategic partnership to a new height by deepening political mutual trust and intensifying economic, trade and cultural collaborations, noted Liu when meeting with New Zealand Prime Minister John Key.

Key praised the thriving development of China-New Zealand ties, saying that bilateral exchanges and cooperation covering various sectors have reaped inspiring harvests. Attaching great importance to its relations with China, New Zealand will work with China to bring more benefits to both peoples and play a more important role in the stability and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region by boosting bilateral all-round cooperation.

With New Zealand being the first developed country to sign the bilateral free trade agreement with China, their ties have marked the forefront of China’s cooperation with the developed world. The frequency of visits by Chinese and New Zealand leaders in recent years also offers a glimpse into their booming ties.

After Chinese President Xi Jinping paid a state visit to New Zealand in November 2014, Key visited China this April. During Xi’s visit, both sides agreed to lift bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Apart from official activities, Liu also attended several cultural events including the ceremony marking the opening of 2016 New Zealand-China Film Week, as well as the opening ceremony of a photo and book exhibition themed “Beautiful China.”

He also attended the opening ceremony of the premiere of TV documentary “Glamorous New Zealand” as well as the filming of “Glamorous China.”

Liu, who is also a member as well as secretariat Central Committee, urged the two countries to uplift people-to-people exchanges by further boosting bilateral cooperation on education, tourism, film and TV dramas.