UK and New Zealand Prime Ministers Discuss International Issues and Bilateral Relations

In a recent conversation, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom held discussions with New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The leaders covered a broad spectrum of international topics and reaffirmed the strong UK-New Zealand bilateral relationship.

The UK Prime Minister expressed gratitude to New Zealand for its contribution to Operation Interflex, which has provided training for nearly 30,000 Ukrainian soldiers in the UK, bolstering Ukraine's defense capabilities.

Both leaders also emphasized the need for international action to deter Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, underscoring the importance of forming an international coalition to safeguard freedom of navigation in the Gulf and the Pacific.

Regarding the conflict between Israel and Hamas, the UK Prime Minister outlined the UK's efforts to secure the release of hostages, alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and establish a sustainable ceasefire.

On the economic front, Prime Minister Luxon welcomed the UK's accession to the CPTPP trade bloc and highlighted the opportunities arising from the new UK-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement. They stressed the importance of continued cooperation among 5 Eyes partners in addressing global economic security threats, including those stemming from China.

The UK Prime Minister expressed eagerness to deepen the historic alliance between the UK and New Zealand, rooted in robust security, economic, and cultural ties.