China & NZ Strengthen Ties: Premier Li Highlights Green Innovation & Visa Ease!

Chinese Premier Li Qiang brought some serious win-win vibes to Auckland this week, celebrating a decade of upgraded China-New Zealand relations at a star-studded gala dinner. With trade between the two nations doubling to NZ$40 billion since 2014, Li spotlighted four key bonds shaping this power duo.

Sailing Toward Shared Goals

Marking 10 years since President Xi Jinping's NZ visit, Li revealed how both nations are:

• Nature lovers: Collaborating on green tech like China's world-leading EVs and NZ's sustainable farming
• Culture champions: Celebrating Māori traditions and China's regional diversity as models for harmony
• Innovation buddies: Ranking high in global tech indexes with plans for more joint R&D
• Peace promoters: United in diplomatic approaches (and adorable mascots – shoutout to Kiwis!)

What's Next?

Li dropped major news: NZ joins China's visa-free program, making travel easier than streaming your fave K-drama. With China's economy growing at 5.3% this quarter, the Premier emphasized opportunities in renewable energy and digital sectors – perfect for young entrepreneurs eyeing cross-Pacific collabs.

As Auckland's 'City of Sails' metaphor meets China's proverb about teamwork in boat races, this partnership proves that distance is no barrier to climate action and cultural coolness.

Reference(s):

Chinese premier addresses welcoming gala dinner in New Zealand

cgtn.com