Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held discussions with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President António Costa, emphasising shared values and a joint commitment to the international rules-based order amid global security challenges.
Key topics included enhancing trade under the EU-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, with New Zealand's exports to the EU increasing by over NZ$1 billion (a 25% rise) in the past year. PM Luxon highlighted the potential for further growth, particularly in premium goods. The leaders also discussed collaboration in research and innovation, with both parties involved in 17 joint projects under Horizon Europe, covering areas such as hydrogen storage and bioprinting.
While in Belgium, PM Luxon visited memorials at Flanders to honour New Zealand soldiers who served in World War I. He now travels to the Netherlands for talks with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof and will attend the NATO Summit in The Hague.
© Beehive
