New Zealand and China Strengthen Climate Cooperation in Seventh Dialogue

Climate Change Minister Simon Watts has hosted China’s Minister of Ecology and Environment Huang Runqiu for the Seventh Ministerial Climate Change Dialogue between New Zealand and China.

Cooperation on climate action is a longstanding and valuable part of our relationship with China, Mr Watts says.

This is the third Dialogue I have led with Minister Huang and this meeting has been an opportunity to build on the strong and constructive relationship we have developed over recent years.

While in New Zealand, Minister Huang has been able to learn more about Kiwi expertise in climate innovation and technology. He also had the opportunity to visit Zealandia, a unique conservation sanctuary showcasing New Zealand's native biodiversity.

There are opportunities for us to strengthen our collaboration in areas such as agricultural methane emissions and sustainable finance, Mr Watts says.

Continued engagement enables us to share experiences, learn from one another, and explore practical ways to support the transition to low-emissions economies.

Climate change is a global challenge that requires international cooperation. Constructive dialogue and practical cooperation with key partners such as China is important to advancing effective and durable climate solutions.

New Zealand’s climate engagement with China is underpinned by the 2014 New Zealand-China Arrangement on Climate Change Cooperation, which was updated during Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit to China in June 2025.