New Zealand's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters takes part in a meeting with Vietnam's Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son at the Government Guest House in Hanoi on June 5, 2024.MANILA, Philippines — New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters will undertake an official visit to the Philippines this week to enhance collaboration between the two countries, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Sunday.
The department called the visit of Peters “particularly significant” as the Philippines and New Zealand anticipate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in July 2026. In April, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at Malcañan Palace. In a joint statement, the two “shared serious concern” over escalating tensions in the South China Sea.