NZ, Taiwan strengthen ties through parliamentary visit

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu met with New Zealand's All-Party Parliamentary Group on Taiwan on Thursday (April 18), expressing admiration for New Zealand's beauty and friendliness, and noting the positive sentiment held by Taiwanese people towards the country.

In his speech, Han mentioned the broad resonance in Taiwan of New Zealand's film "The Lord of the Rings," which has been seen by many Taiwanese who are fascinated by the country's beautiful scenery.

Ingrid Leary, co-chair of the group, praised Taiwan's achievements and expressed New Zealand's desire to continue cooperation in various fields.

Leary said their group is the first New Zealand cross-party parliamentary delegation to visit Taiwan this year, with the primary goal of further promoting relations between New Zealand and Taiwan.

She noted that the delegation members come from various political parties, representing the New Zealand Parliament's intention to strengthen relations and friendship with Taiwan.

Since the signing of the Agreement between New Zealand and the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu on Economic Cooperation (ANZTEC) in 2013, Leary said exchanges between Taiwan and New Zealand in trade, indigenous affairs, agriculture, and culture have become increasingly close. She expressed hope for further deepening relations with Taiwan in the future.

Leary emphasized that New Zealand and Taiwan share values of democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. She reiterated her admiration for Taiwan's achievements, expressing hope for continued cooperation in various fields.