PM Luxon to Strengthen Ties with Malaysia and Korea in Official Visits

New Zealand and Malaysia enjoy a strong defense partnership and collaborate on regional security issues, including transnational crime.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is set to embark on official visits to Malaysia and the Republic of Korea next week, accompanied by a senior business delegation. These visits aim to bolster New Zealand's relationships with two key international partners.

“Malaysia and Korea are vital partners for New Zealand, contributing significantly to our prosperity and security on the global stage. I am eager to meet with my counterparts and explore ways to further deepen our ties,” said Mr. Luxon.

The visit to Malaysia marks Mr. Luxon’s first official trip to the country, underscoring New Zealand’s commitment to enhancing its longstanding relationship with this important Southeast Asian partner. “I look forward to reconnecting with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and opening the door to more opportunities for New Zealand businesses,” he added.

New Zealand and Malaysia enjoy a strong defense partnership and collaborate on regional security issues, including transnational crime. Malaysia ranks as New Zealand’s ninth-largest two-way trading partner. Mr. Luxon sees this visit as a chance to expand trade and investment ties and to strengthen connections between the two nations in areas such as education and tourism.

Following his time in Malaysia, Mr. Luxon will head to the Republic of Korea, a key democratic ally in the Indo-Pacific region. “Korea shares New Zealand’s perspectives on the challenges facing the region. I look forward to continuing discussions with President Yoon Suk Yeol on both regional and global issues, as well as enhancing our bilateral cooperation,” said Mr. Luxon.

Korea stands as New Zealand’s sixth-largest trading partner and fourth-largest source market for education. The Prime Minister hopes this visit will elevate the profile of New Zealand’s food and beverage exports, among other world-class offerings.

The strong defense and security ties between New Zealand and Korea, which date back to the Korean War, remain significant today, as both countries work towards peace and stability on the Korean peninsula.

Prime Minister Luxon will be joined by Nicola Grigg, the Minister of State for Trade, and Melissa Lee, the Minister for Economic Development, along with a senior business delegation.