New Zealand has expressed its concern to China regarding the provision of lethal aid to Russia. The move comes after reports emerged that China has been supplying Russia with advanced military technology, including missile systems and fighter jets.
New Zealand’s Foreign Minister, Nanaia Mahuta, said that the country was “deeply concerned” about the reports and had raised the issue with Chinese officials. “We have made it clear to China that we expect them to abide by their international obligations and not provide lethal aid to Russia,” she said.
The provision of lethal aid to Russia by China is a violation of international sanctions imposed on Russia following its annexation of Crimea in 2014. The sanctions were imposed by the United States, the European Union, and other countries in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
China has been a key ally of Russia in recent years, with the two countries strengthening their military and economic ties. However, China has also sought to maintain good relations with the West, and has been careful not to openly challenge the international sanctions on Russia.
The provision of lethal aid to Russia by China is likely to further strain relations between China and the West. The United States has already imposed sanctions on Chinese companies involved in the sale of military equipment to Russia, and has warned China against further cooperation with Russia in this area.
New Zealand’s decision to raise the issue with China is a significant move, as it is one of the few Western countries to have a close relationship with China. New Zealand has been seeking to deepen its economic ties with China in recent years, and has been a strong supporter of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
However, New Zealand’s concerns about China’s provision of lethal aid to Russia highlight the challenges that Western countries face in balancing their economic interests with their security concerns. As China’s influence continues to grow, Western countries will need to find ways to engage with China while also protecting their own interests and values.
In the meantime, New Zealand and other Western countries will continue to monitor China’s activities closely, and will take action when necessary to ensure that China abides by its international obligations. The provision of lethal aid to Russia is a serious violation of international law, and China must be held accountable for its actions.
