We are expanding defence cooperation and sending one of the New Zealand Air Force’s new PA Poseidons to Butterworth for joint training

New Zealand PM in Malaysia: We are expanding defence cooperation and sending one of the New Zealand Air Force’s new PA Poseidons to Butterworth for joint training

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will make his first official visit to Malaysia next week, marking a significant step in strengthening the already robust relationship between the two countries (1). The visit comes as both countries reaffirm their commitment to deepening trade, investment and defence cooperation.

Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim welcomed Luxon’s visit and expressed his enthusiasm for exploring new opportunities to strengthen bilateral ties (1). Luxon stressed the importance of Malaysia as a key partner for New Zealand, emphasising the country’s significance on the global stage and its role in New Zealand’s prosperity and security.

Defence cooperation between Malaysia and New Zealand is a cornerstone of their relationship, with both countries working together on regional security challenges such as transnational crime (1). Furthermore, Malaysia is New Zealand’s ninth largest two-way trading partner, and this visit provides an opportunity to further expand trade and investment ties (1).

Luxon’s visit to Malaysia next week will be accompanied by a senior business delegation, underlining the importance of economic cooperation between the two countries (1). The delegation will be accompanied by Minister of State for Trade Nicola Grigg and Minister for Economic Development Melissa Lee (1).

The strong ties between Malaysia and New Zealand date back to 1957, when the two countries established diplomatic relations (1). Since then, the relationship has remained stable and resilient, with an increasing number of New Zealand tourists visiting Malaysia each year (1).

References:
(1) “New Zealand PM to deepen trade, defence ties with Malaysia on upcoming official visit,” Malay Mail, August 29, 2024. https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/08/29/new-zealand-pm-to-deepen-trade-and-defence-ties-with-malaysia-on-upcoming-official-visit/148614