Articles tagged with Philippines

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New Zealand Strengthens ASEAN Partnership Amid Global Turbulence and Regional Talks

Foreign Minister Winston Peters highlighted the importance of regional cooperation amid global turbulence and its economic and security impacts during high-level talks in Manila. He emphasized New Zealand’s longstanding partnership with ASEAN and announced a new Comprehensive Partnership with the Philippines to enhance regional stability and resilience. Peters also engaged in multiple bilateral meetings with various foreign ministers, reinforcing New Zealand’s commitment to collaboration in the Asia-Pacific region.

New Zealand and Philippines Announce Comprehensive Partnership to Boost Cooperation

New Zealand and the Philippines have formalized a Comprehensive Partnership to enhance cooperation across political, defense, trade, and people-to-people ties. This partnership, announced by Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Philippine Foreign Secretary Maria Theresa P. Lazaro, marks 60 years of diplomatic relations and aims to support a stable, rules-based Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, both countries signed new agreements on education and geothermal energy, with further discussions planned during Peters’ visit to ASEAN-related events in Manila.

NZ Foreign Minister Winston Peters to Strengthen Ties at ASEAN and Manila Meetings

Foreign Minister Winston Peters will visit Manila next week to strengthen New Zealand's relationship with the Philippines and engage in regional meetings, marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties. The visit aligns with New Zealand's Foreign Policy Reset focused on enhancing partnerships in Southeast Asia, particularly with ASEAN, a key trade and security partner. During the trip, Peters will conduct bilateral meetings, sign cooperation agreements, and participate in ASEAN, East Asia Summit, and ASEAN Regional Forum meetings involving major regional powers.

Todd McClay Reappointed Vice Chair for WTO MC14 to Boost NZ Trade Interests

Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay has been reappointed Vice Chair for the World Trade Organisation’s 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) to be held in March 2026 in Cameroon, reflecting New Zealand’s commitment to the multilateral trading system. McClay will focus on advancing key issues such as agricultural exports, fisheries subsidies reforms, the WTO E-commerce moratorium, and strengthening dispute settlement processes. As one of three Vice Chairs, he will work closely with the host Chair and members to ensure a successful conference that benefits New Zealand’s exporters and economy.

Costa Rica Nears CPTPP Membership as Trade Ministers Advance Accession Talks

Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay welcomed progress on Costa Rica’s accession to the CPTPP, with ministers planning to announce substantial conclusions before year-end, making Costa Rica the second economy to join after the UK. Accession processes will also begin with Uruguay this year and with Indonesia, the Philippines, and the UAE in 2026, while discussions continue with other aspirant countries to meet the Auckland Principles. Additionally, inaugural Trade and Investment Dialogues with the EU and ASEAN were held to strengthen cooperation on digital trade, supply chain resilience, and support for WTO reform, emphasizing the importance of upholding international trade rules.

Unlocking Opportunities: New Zealand's Southeast Asia Foreign Policy Reset

The speech delivered to the ASEAN – NZ Business Council emphasized the importance of New Zealand's foreign policy reset, focusing on Southeast Asia as a key partner for trade, security, and resilience. The reset aims to deepen relationships through practical diplomacy, increased resources, and tangible outcomes such as strategic partnerships with countries like Viet Nam and Singapore. The plan for the year ahead includes turning upgraded agreements into results, building people-to-people ties, and deepening security cooperation to deliver security and prosperity for New Zealanders.