New Zealand Open to Limited Participation in AUKUS Alliance Amid China Tensions
New Zealand has expressed openness to engage in the AUKUS alliance, a significant pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States aimed at countering China’s influence in the Pacific region. During his visit to Wellington, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that New Zealand would be welcome to participate in the alliance as it sees fit. The AUKUS pact includes plans to provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, a move that has sparked strong opposition from China.
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has indicated that New Zealand is willing to discuss limited participation in the AUKUS alliance. However, the country has ruled out involvement in any nuclear-related projects due to its longstanding anti-nuclear policy. Nuclear submarines are prohibited from entering New Zealand’s waters. Instead, New Zealand’s potential involvement is likely to focus on areas such as cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, and the development of long-range hypersonic missiles.
It is noteworthy that nothing has been agreed upon yet, and any AUKUS proposals would require approval from New Zealand’s cabinet. While New Zealand and Australia are key allies of the United States in the South Pacific, New Zealand has faced accusations of prioritizing its relationship with China over its partnerships with other members of the Five Eyes spy group.
During a recent visit to China, Prime Minister Hipkins emphasized the importance of economic connections between both countries, sidestepping issues related to China’s human rights record and tensions surrounding Taiwan. This move has raised concerns among New Zealand’s allies about the country’s commitment to shared democratic values.
Moving forward, Secretary Blinken, along with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, will meet with their Australian counterparts to discuss military cooperation and finalize the details of the AUKUS alliance. Previous discussions between the United States and Australia led to an agreement to increase the presence of US armed forces at Australian bases. This included the rotation of bomber aircraft, strengthening defense ties between the two nations.
In summary, New Zealand’s potential involvement in the AUKUS alliance amid tensions with China is primarily centered on non-nuclear aspects of the pact. While Prime Minister Hipkins has expressed openness to limited participation, the final decision will be subject to the approval of New Zealand’s cabinet. The discussions between the United States and Australia will further shape the military cooperation aspect of the alliance, enhancing their defense capabilities in the Pacific region.
