Photo source: FMT
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is closely monitoring the upcoming U.S. presidential election, emphasising the necessity for New Zealand to build strong relationships with whichever candidate emerges victorious.
“We need to be able to work with whoever the American people pick as their president and that administration,” Luxon stated in a recent interview.
Luxon’s approach is rooted in his experiences during a previous visit to the United States, where he engaged with key political figures from both major parties.
“As a small trading nation, we’ve got to be able to get on and build relationships and rapport with any administration,” he stated.
The prime minister’s proactive stance is particularly crucial given the unpredictable nature of U.S. politics, especially in light of potential shifts in trade policies depending on the election outcome.
In the context of trade, Luxon has expressed concerns regarding the implications of a Trump presidency, particularly around tariffs that could significantly affect New Zealand’s economy. He noted that while he refrains from making predictions about the election’s results, he is committed to working positively with whichever leader is chosen by American voters.
“My commitment is we will work very positively with whoever the American people choose,” he affirmed. Luxon also highlighted New Zealand’s reliance on maintaining robust trade relations with the U.S., which has been a cornerstone of its economic strategy.
Furthermore, Luxon’s diplomatic strategy also includes engaging with various levels of the U.S. political system. He acknowledged the complexity of American governance, saying, “It’s a big system, the American political system… you actually need to have relationships at all levels across it and on all sides of the aisle.”
Additionally, Luxon has underscored the importance of international collaboration on pressing global issues such as security and climate change. His discussions with U.S. leaders have reinforced New Zealand’s commitment to working alongside allies in defence of democratic values and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
He also discussed his interactions with President Biden, describing them as “very positive and very engaging,” which reflects his desire for continued dialogue regardless of electoral outcomes.
As the election approaches, Luxon’s focus remains on building enduring ties that can withstand political fluctuations in Washington. His strategy centres on safeguarding New Zealand’s economic interests and positioning the country as a proactive player in global diplomacy.