China has called on New Zealand to avoid turning Beijing into a point of political contention, following comments by New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters during a parliamentary session. The debate included discussions involving a Chinese-born member of the opposition.
In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized China’s commitment to respecting the developmental choices of all nations. She reiterated China’s stance against any form of discrimination and prejudice, urging actions that foster bilateral friendship and mutual respect between the two countries.
Amid these tensions, China took diplomatic steps by confirming that its embassy in New Zealand had officially communicated its concerns to New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade regarding the matter.