Chinese residents in New Zealand welcome the arrival of Premier Li Keqiang. (Photo : Getty Images)
When Chinese Premier Li Keqiang arrived in Wellington, he stated that the ties between China and New Zealand is significant and are still going smoothly amid various issues.
Premier Li Keqiang, the second most powerful man in China, assured Prime Minister Bill English that although there have been different takes on various issues, China will still be a loyal trade partner. Li said that, in spite of Beijing's rift with the White House, the two countries will remain friends.
The relationship between New Zealand and China has come to a crossroads as U.S. President Donald Trump refused to participate in the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Trump clearly wanted to steer clear of alliances with other countries.
Premier Li explained that China will still uphold its trade relations with the U.S. despite differences in the approach to globalization.
He said, "Because Li is an expert on both economies he understands and explains very well the economic interdependence of China and the U.S. They both realize that they need each other if they're going to lift incomes, particularly in China where there are strong expectations about rising incomes."
Referring to China-New Zealand ties, English noted, "As Li said today it's a relationship that goes through a few twists and turns but it is fundamentally sound."
Meanwhile, many New Zealanders do not agree with opening the country's market to more Chinese investments.
Financial and corporate law expert Cathy Quinn wrote an article stating her opinion on the critics of China's economy and the racist behavior of some New Zealanders.
She wrote, "Many kiwis are working positively with Chinese people both in tourism and in developing business in China from New Zealand-sourced products. But more ordinary New Zealanders need to get with the program."
The New Zealand Herald reported that a young New Zealand-born Chinese woman was being abused with racist slurs. She is Deana Yang, who was bashed online for appearing in an ad.
"That is not a story any New Zealander should be proud of," Quinn commented.
