New Zealand Trade and Defense Minister Phil Goff ended his official visit to China Tuesday and described it as "positive" for the growing trade and defense relationship between the two nations.

 

According to a press release from Trade and Defense Minister's office, Goff said his visit is an exciting time in the relationship between New Zealand and China with the two way goods trade between the two countries growing well, up more than 17 percent since last year and defense, tourism and cultural links being developed and strengthened.

 

The first leg of Goff's visit was focused around the activities of the New Zealand trade delegation he led to Shanghai, where links were established at both national and individual levels.

 

He said business people traveling with the delegation have been extremely positive about the value they have derived from being part of this delegation and the opportunities for further engagement.

 

During Goff's visit to Beijing the following days, much of the discussion focused on the goal of a free trade agreement.

 

"A successful free trade agreement will clearly help New Zealand exporters by removing barriers to trade with the world's fastest growing economy," said Goff.

 

"However it will be up to initiatives taken by the private sector, drawing where appropriate on assistance from New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, which will determine what benefit we draw from the opportunities presented by this dynamic market," said Goff.

 

(Xinhua News Agency November 14, 2006)