Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian

When asked about the background and China's expectations for New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's upcoming visit to China. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Friday that this will be Luxon's first trip to China since taking office and comes at the beginning of the second decade of the China-New Zealand comprehensive strategic partnership. 

During the visit, the Chinese leader will meet and hold talks with Prime Minister Luxon to exchange views on bilateral relations as well as international and regional issues of mutual concern, Lin noted.

At the invitation of Premier of the State Council Li Qiang, Prime Minister of New Zealand Christopher Luxon will pay an official visit to China from June 17 to 20, an FM spokesperson announced on Friday.

Lin emphasized that amid today's complex and volatile international environment, China is ready to work with New Zealand to strengthen strategic communication, enhance political mutual trust, deepen practical cooperation, reinforce traditional friendship, jointly meet challenges, and promote the building of a comprehensive strategic partnership of mutualrespect, inclusiveness, cooperation and common development between China and New Zealand, so as to better benefit the people of both countries.

Global Times