During a state visit to Saudi Arabia, New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister, Winston Peters, lauded the Kingdom for its pivotal role in global peace and stability amid growing global insecurity. In an interview with Arab News, Peters highlighted the significant contributions of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states toward achieving peace, noting that despite the challenges of an increasingly unstable world, Saudi Arabia’s influence in promoting stability is widely admired.
“We are observing with great admiration the new role Saudi Arabia is playing in ensuring peace,” said Peters, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to improve the world.
The Deputy PM also reaffirmed New Zealand’s unwavering support for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, calling for a resolution that benefits the people involved.
In addition, Peters discussed New Zealand’s recent imposition of sanctions on Russia, targeting individuals and entities involved in Russia’s military and energy sectors, while condemning the ongoing war in Ukraine. He also expressed concerns about the war in Gaza, reiterating his country’s stance on a two-state solution.
The visit coincided with Saudi Arabia’s Founding Day celebrations, where Peters acknowledged the country’s progress under Vision 2030. He also discussed the recent free trade agreement between New Zealand and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), highlighting the growing economic ties between the two regions.
Touching on cultural exchanges, Peters addressed the decline in the number of Saudi students studying in New Zealand post-COVID, expressing hope for future discussions to reverse the trend.
The Deputy Prime Minister also spoke about Saudi Arabia’s equestrian heritage and its global prominence in horse breeding, alongside praise for New Zealand’s sports figures, including boxer Joseph Parker, who recently won in Riyadh.
