The Pacific region must be protected from turning into a military zone due to China’s growing influence, New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister, Winston Peters, has cautioned before a meeting with his Australian counterpart, Penny Wong. Peters acknowledges New Zealand’s good relationship with China but underscores that the Pacific should remain a zone of peace and not a battleground for competition.
Peters emphasized that the Pacific is known for peace and its status should be maintained. This concern comes amidst tensions over China’s activities in the Pacific, including an agreement with the Cook Islands that sparked a diplomatic dispute and live-fire drills in the Tasman Sea, which surprised both Wellington and Canberra.
The United States’ tariffs and cuts to USAID are also contributing to uncertainty in the region, with Peters noting this is the most uncertain period in nearly 80 years. Western countries, which traditionally had influence in the Pacific, are increasingly worried about China’s push for influence, marked by security and policing deals, as well as significant economic aid and infrastructure investments in Pacific Island countries.
Tensions escalated when the Cook Islands announced a strategic partnership deal with China, sparking New Zealand’s concerns over the agreement’s lack of transparency. The Cook Islands, while self-governing, has a longstanding relationship with New Zealand, including obligations to consult on defense and security matters.
New Zealand and Australian officials criticized China for conducting live-fire exercises with little notice, which disrupted commercial flights. Despite China being New Zealand’s largest trading partner, Peters has openly discussed these issues with China’s foreign minister, maintaining that it is vital to have a relationship where frank discussions can occur.
Peters and Wong will discuss defense, security, and development in the Pacific during their meeting in Adelaide, stressing the importance of direct, face-to-face diplomacy to foster relationships with Pacific neighbors.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/may/21/winston-peters-new-zealand-deputy-pm-pacific-china-influence
