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New Zealand Defence Force officials have met with their Chinese counterparts for the 11th New Zealand-China Strategic Defence Dialogue.
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The annual dialogue was led by NZDF Vice Chief, Air Vice-Marshal Tony Davies and NZ Ministry of Defence Deputy Secretary Policy and Planning Richard Schmidt in Xi’an, China on 10 May.
The regular officials’ level meeting extended discussion on common regional issues of concern, willingness to jointly promote military exchanges and cooperation, after the last meeting in 2019.
“The New Zealand-China Strategic Defence Dialogue is one of a wide suite of regular engagements that the New Zealand Defence Force and Ministry of Defence undertake with counterpart organisations internationally,” a NZ Ministry of Defence spokesperson said.
“The dialogue was cordial and offered a useful opportunity for both sides to exchange perspectives on regional security issues. Further dialogue and cooperation at existing multilateral fora was also discussed.”
Earlier this year, New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta met with Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang in Beijing.
The pair reportedly discussed diplomatic relations, action on climate change, and development of the China-New Zealand comprehensive strategic partnership, as well as management of the China-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement Upgrade Protocol and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.
