New Zealand Protests China's Ban on Lawmakers After Taiwan Visit

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has criticized China's ban on four Kiwi lawmakers who visited Taiwan, labeling it 'entirely inappropriate.' The visit did not reflect Wellington's official stance, and Luxon insists it should not affect relations. Australia is lending diplomatic support as tensions rise.

New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has condemned China's decision to ban four New Zealand lawmakers who visited Taiwan, a move he described as 'entirely inappropriate.'

The group, composed of three backbenchers from the centre-right coalition and a Labour party member, were notified of the ban by the Chinese embassy. Luxon emphasized that these lawmakers were not representing the government and should have the freedom to meet whomever they choose.

This diplomatic tension comes amidst generally stable New Zealand-China relations, with China being New Zealand's largest trading partner. Despite maintaining a 'one China policy,' New Zealand has become more vocal about China’s growing Pacific influence. Australia's support underscores the regional implications of the incident.