New Zealand and Germany Move to Deepen Strategic Partnership

“New Zealand and Germany share deep concerns about global developments across Europe, the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific,” Mr Peters says.

New Zealand and Germany have agreed to strengthen their strategic partnership, reaffirming shared interests and values at a time of growing global instability, Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced.

Mr Peters met with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul in the Bay of Islands, where both leaders discussed international security challenges across Europe, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific — regions facing heightened geopolitical tension.

“New Zealand and Germany share deep concerns about global developments across Europe, the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific,” Mr Peters says. “At a time of geostrategic upheaval, it is important to reinforce relationships with trusted partners.”

Shared Values and Commitment to the Rules-Based Order

Following the meeting, the Ministers released a Joint Statement reaffirming the importance of the New Zealand–Germany relationship, grounded in shared democratic values and a commitment to international cooperation.

“The foundation of our relationship with Germany is our shared interests and values, including a commitment to democracy, human rights, and a well-functioning and fit-for-purpose multilateral system,” Mr Peters says.

Both countries emphasised the interconnected nature of today’s global challenges, underscoring the need for coordinated responses that span regions and institutions.

Ukraine, the Pacific and Growing Strategic Alignment

The Ministers highlighted their respective contributions to global stability, including New Zealand’s support for Ukraine and Germany’s increasing engagement in the Pacific.

“The world’s challenges are inter-connected, which is why New Zealand is committed to doing its part in defending Ukraine, and why Germany is stepping up its support for the Pacific,” Mr Peters says.

He says the current strength of the bilateral relationship provides a solid platform for deeper collaboration as both countries respond to evolving security and economic pressures.

Trade, Science and People-to-People Links

Germany remains New Zealand’s largest export market within Europe, making it a key economic partner. Beyond trade, the two countries work closely in high-value areas including advanced science, innovation, and space research.

“German connections matter to New Zealand,” Mr Peters says. “We collaborate on cutting-edge science and space research, welcome German tourists and young people on working holidays, and maintain strong education links.”

These longstanding people-to-people connections continue to underpin the broader strategic relationship.

Joint Commitment to Antarctic Protection

The Ministers also released a separate Joint Statement on Antarctic Cooperation, reaffirming their shared support for the Antarctic Treaty System.

“We both support the work of the Antarctic Treaty System for the long-term protection of Antarctica as a natural reserve devoted to peace and science,” Mr Peters says.

The agreement reinforces New Zealand and Germany’s commitment to environmental stewardship and international cooperation in one of the world’s most strategically and scientifically significant regions.