New Zealand and Germany have agreed to strengthen their strategic partnership, highlighting shared concerns over global developments in Europe, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific. Foreign Minister Winston Peters, who met his German counterpart Johann Wadephul in the Bay of Islands, emphasized the importance of reinforcing relationships with trusted partners amid ongoing geostrategic upheaval.
Following the meeting, the two ministers issued a Joint Statement reaffirming the strong foundation of the New Zealand-Germany relationship, rooted in shared interests and values such as democracy, human rights, and a robust multilateral system. Peters noted that the interconnected nature of global challenges underscores New Zealand’s commitment to defending Ukraine and Germany’s increased engagement in the Pacific, providing a basis for deeper collaboration in the coming years.
Economic, scientific, and cultural ties also form a key part of the partnership. Germany is New Zealand’s largest export market within Europe, and the two countries collaborate on advanced science and space research. The relationship is further strengthened through tourism, working holiday programs, and educational exchanges.
The ministers additionally issued a Joint Statement on Antarctic cooperation, affirming their commitment to the Antarctic Treaty System and supporting the long-term protection of Antarctica as a natural reserve dedicated to peace and scientific research.
