Summarised by Centrist
It’s almost 40 years since the Lange Labour government imploded the ANZUS defence treaty with the US and Australia. Now, Geoffrey Miller says New Zealand’s ‘Pacific Reset’ policy is back under its new (but former) foreign minister, Winston Peters, who is putting the nation in a more pro-U.S. stance in the Pacific region. Peters recently gave a speech praising the U.S.’s role in the Pacific’s success and hinted at New Zealand’s interest in potentially joining the AUKUS defence pact.
Peters’ approach may mark a departure from New Zealand’s traditionally independent foreign policy due to concerns about Russia’s actions and China’s rise in the Indo-Pacific.
Miller also notes that Peters faces challenges and opposition, including criticism from former Prime Minister Helen Clark and any potential involvement in AUKUS is uncertain.
Additionally, Peters expressed concern about the conflict in Gaza and suggested New Zealand should focus on facilitating a peaceful solution. He also mentioned the possibility of upgrading military support to Ukraine in the form of light armoured vehicles.
