New Zealand and Germany reaffirmed their close and enduring partnership, rooted in shared democratic values, respect for international law, and a commitment to addressing global challenges collaboratively. Both nations celebrated the strength of their bilateral relationship and expressed their intention to further deepen cooperation across strategic, economic, security, and people-to-people domains.
The two countries emphasized their support for multilateralism, the United Nations, and its institutions, highlighting concern over increasing pressures on international rules and the need for collective action to maintain global stability. They underscored the importance of upholding international law and the UN Charter as the foundation for peaceful cooperation.
Recognizing the interconnected nature of European and Indo-Pacific security and prosperity, New Zealand and Germany discussed promoting stability, sovereignty, and freedom of navigation. Germany acknowledged New Zealand’s ongoing support for Ukraine since Russia’s 2022 invasion, including contributions to NATO initiatives, deployment of NZDF personnel, and coordinated sanctions. Both sides reiterated opposition to coercive or destabilizing actions in any region.
The countries stressed the importance of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea for maintaining peace and stability and affirmed strong support for ASEAN centrality. New Zealand highlighted Pacific Islands Forum efforts to strengthen regional resilience and stability, while Germany reaffirmed its engagement with the Pacific, including contributions to the Pacific Resilience Facility, and expressed intent to deepen ties with Pacific partners. Climate change and sea level rise were acknowledged as key security considerations.
Economic cooperation was also emphasized, including the need for resilient, diversified supply chains and rules-based trade. The European Union-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement was noted as exceeding expectations, and both countries welcomed plans to upgrade the New Zealand-Germany Double-Taxation Agreement. Collaboration in critical mineral investment, strategic economic partnerships, innovation, energy, space, and digital technologies was also highlighted as a driver of prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and Europe.
Human rights, democratic governance, and fundamental freedoms were reaffirmed as essential foundations for security and prosperity. Cultural ties were celebrated, including the repatriation of Māori and Moriori ancestors and taonga Māori from Germany, strengthening people-to-people connections.
The joint statement concluded with a commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation, maintaining dialogue at all levels, and closely coordinating on global and regional issues to foster a stable, secure, and prosperous international environment.
