Photo source: FMT
New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is set to make his debut on the international stage at this week’s APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Peru. As a newcomer to global summits, Luxon is approaching the event with enthusiasm and a clear agenda to maximise New Zealand’s presence and influence among world leaders.
The Prime Minister has already emphasised the critical importance of APEC for New Zealand’s economy.
“One in four jobs in New Zealand depends on trade, and over 75% of our exports go to APEC economies,” Luxon stated.
His priorities at the summit include addressing shared challenges among APEC members, such as cost-of-living pressures and strategies for boosting economic productivity. He sees the summit as a key platform for regional economic policy discussions that could shape the future of the Asia-Pacific region.
Meeting World Leaders
The Prime Minister’s schedule is packed with high-level meetings. A confirmed bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping tops the list, which signals the importance of the China-New Zealand relationship.
While a formal meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden is not yet confirmed, Luxon is hopeful for at least informal talks on the summit’s sidelines. These potential discussions come at a crucial time, given the recent U.S. election results and the looming prospect of shifts in global trade dynamics.
Trade Ambitions and Economic Focus
Luxon’s government has set ambitious trade goals, including doubling the value of New Zealand’s exports over the next decade. The APEC summit provides a prime opportunity to advance these objectives by strengthening ties with ASEAN and the broader Indo-Pacific region.
The Prime Minister is also keen on addressing economic barriers in the Asia-Pacific, viewing their removal as critical to New Zealand’s national interests. This aligns with APEC’s long-standing mission to promote free and open trade in the region.
Geopolitical Complexities
The return of Donald Trump to the White House and the prospect of increased protectionism loom large over the discussions. Meanwhile, China is positioning itself as a champion of free trade at the summit, adding another layer of complexity to the diplomatic scene.
Luxon will need to steer through these intricate dynamics while advancing New Zealand’s interests, a challenge that will test his diplomatic skills on the world stage.
Domestic Challenges
While focusing on international engagement, Luxon remains mindful of domestic priorities. He faces the task of justifying his international travel schedule to voters, especially in light of his campaign focus on domestic economic issues. Balancing New Zealand’s economic interests with security considerations from a global perspective will be crucial.
The outcomes of this summit could have far-reaching implications for New Zealand’s trade relationships, economic growth, and geopolitical standing. Luxon’s leadership and vision will shape New Zealand’s future and define its role in the Asia-Pacific region.