New Zealand and the Philippines: Shared journeys, boundless horizons

DIPLOMATIC POUCH

- CATHERINE MCINTOSH

Today, New Zealanders - or Kiwis - across the world commemorate Waitangi Day. A historic day that defines our identity as a nation, Waitangi Day marks the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi) in 1840. As the founding document that established Aotearoa New Zealand, it represents the living partnership between Maori - the indigenous people of New Zealand - and the Crown.

As New Zealand reflects on our unique journey, I reflect on another flourishing partnership - that of New Zealand and the Philippines. The past year has been nothing short of extraordinary. Welcoming Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters within months of each other to the Philippines marked a turning point in our relationship. We are now moving towards a Comprehensive Partnership - an ambitious step for a stronger and more dynamic future together.

Trade that transforms

We have our sights set on a bold goal: increase two-way trade by 50 percent by 2030. The Philippines is moving up the ranks of New Zealand's key trading partners, supported by a post-pandemic boost in trade in services and travel and facilitated by our free trade agreements, the ASEAN Australia New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). We are identifying further opportunities to deliver our shared trade ambitions - particularly through investment in agriculture, geothermal energy and technology.

Security through trust and teamwork