Washington, D.C (Washington Insider Magazine) – The prime minister sets off for Washington DC on Monday evening for what will be his debut rubbing shoulders with both European and US leaders. His trip includes engagements with both European and U.S. leaders, with a potential meeting with President Joe Biden. However, the exact schedule remains uncertain, as final confirmations often occur at the last minute during such summits.
Securing a Meeting with Biden
New Zealand’s foreign affairs officials are working tirelessly to secure at least a brief encounter between Luxon and Biden on the summit’s sidelines. Luxon is aiming for a more substantial meeting in the Oval Office, a goal achieved by his predecessors Jacinda Ardern and John Key. This opportunity is particularly crucial given the tumultuous political landscape surrounding Biden.
Biden’s Political Pressures
According to RNZ, Biden faces significant political pressure following a poor debate performance against former President Donald Trump. His recent interview with ABC News has not alleviated concerns. With Biden’s schedule tight due to election year demands and Democratic leadership’s ultimatum to improve his performance, a meeting with Luxon remains uncertain. However, experts advise not to overinterpret a missed meeting as a slight to New Zealand.
Meeting Key International Figures
Luxon also hopes to meet the new British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at the NATO summit. Both politicians are still relatively new in their posts, and for Luxon this summit is the first significant international engagement. The NATO summit, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary, will focus on important issues such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine and China’s influence.
Foreign Policy and New Zealand’s Role
Foreign policy in New Zealand remains largely bipartisan, and Luxon is expected to continue the approach of his predecessors. However, there might be nuanced differences in how far Luxon’s government responds to U.S. foreign policy initiatives. The summit will address significant global issues, reaffirming support for Ukraine and discussing security in the South China Seas, among other topics.
Impact on New Zealand
Participating in international discussions is crucial for New Zealand since the nation is vital to the upkeep of the rules-based international order. Luxon’s attendance to the NATO summit is essential since developments in Europe and the Indo-Pacific area have a direct bearing on New Zealand.
Looking Ahead
Following the summit, Luxon will visit San Francisco to meet potential investors, aiming to boost New Zealand’s economic ties. Unlike previous trips, Luxon will travel commercially, ensuring a smoother journey without the risk of Defence Force plane breakdowns. This trip presents a critical opportunity for Luxon to strengthen New Zealand’s diplomatic and economic relationships on the international stage.