The Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand, Winston Peters, is set to visit the Philippines this week to strengthen collaboration between the two countries, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). Peters, who also serves as the Foreign Affairs Minister of New Zealand, will meet with Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo to discuss enhancing bilateral relations in areas such as defense, economy, renewable energy, and people-to-people linkages. They will also address regional developments of mutual concern.
During the visit, Peters and Manalo will hold a press conference and witness the signing of an agreement between the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) of the Philippines and the New Zealand Trade Enterprise on Ease of Doing Business. The DFA highlighted the significance of Peters’ visit as the Philippines and New Zealand anticipate the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in July 2026.
In April, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon met with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace, where they expressed shared concern over escalating tensions in the South China Sea. New Zealand currently ranks as the Philippines’ 28th trading partner, with more than 100,000 Filipinos residing in the country. The visit aims to strengthen cooperation between the two nations and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
