A response to Helen Clarks criticism of New Zealand foreign policy – Dr Reuben Steff [Video]

OPINION

In recent months Helen Clark has issued several critiques of the foreign policy direction of the coalition Government, going so far to claim that a “profoundly undemocratic” “lurch” is taking place.

Chris Hipkins also expressed concern New Zealand was potentially “picking one side” – the side of New Zealand’s liberal democratic allies and partners – over China.

This is indicated by the Government’s decision to explore opportunities around things like Aukus Pillar 2 – an agreement between Canberra, Washington and Great Britain to share the most advanced emerging technologies.

Japan is likely to join Pillar 2 soon, and South Korea and Canada are showing interest.

Clark believes New Zealand’s openness strikes at our so-called “independent foreign policy”. Our politicians must be cautious to “keep their nerve” and not be “drawn into geopolitical games driven from elsewhere”.

As I’ve detailed elsewhere – what we are seeing out of the Luxon Government is actually a continuation …