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New Zealand China Council Launched

Rt Hon Sir Don McKinnon today announced the launch of the New Zealand China Council. The Council forms part of the New Zealand Inc China Strategy, launched by the Prime Minister in February.

As incoming Chairman, Sir Don McKinnon said, “The Council is intended to bring together leading New Zealanders engaged with China from business, the public sector, academia, and the community.”

“Its aim is to co-ordinate public and private sector effort to ensure New Zealand’s relationship with China reaches its full potential.”

“The Council will operate as an umbrella organisation stretching across the breadth of the relationship but not leaving anyone in the shade. New Zealand has good linkages with China across the business, science, education and cultural communities. The Council will build on these connections, strengthening New Zealand knowledge of China and contributing to public discussion of the New Zealand China relationship.”

The Council will also provide the platform for a high level New Zealand – China Partnership Forum. An inaugural Partnership Forum event planned for Beijing later this year will coincide with high level visits to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between New Zealand and China.

“A small establishment board has been formed to launch the Council. In the coming months we intend to broaden this group, building membership from the rich reservoir of experience that exists - not least within the New Zealand Chinese community,” said Sir Don McKinnon.

A search will be launched for an Executive Director to help run the Council.

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