On September 16, Ambassador Wang Xiaolong met with Hon Louise Upston, Minister for Tourism and Hospitality of New Zealand, who is scheduled to visit China soon. The two sides exchanged views on tourism exchanges and cooperation between China and New Zealand.

Ambassador Wang stated that tourism is an important component of bilateral relations, which not only creates jobs and generates tax revenue, but also serves as a vital bridge for enhancing mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples. China is ready to work with New Zealand to actively promote the development of bilateral tourism cooperation. He expressed the hope that New Zealand will provide greater facilitation for Chinese tourists in areas such as visa policy, and foster an open, safe, friendly, and inclusive tourism environment for them.

Hon Louise Upston noted that China is New Zealand’s second-largest source of inbound visitors and visitor spending. Tourism exchanges and cooperation between the two countries have a solid foundation and play an important role in promoting New Zealand’s economy, culture, education, among other areas. She expressed her anticipation for her upcoming visit to China next week and looked forward to working with the Chinese side to further advance bilateral tourism cooperation on the basis of Prime Minister Luxon’s successful visit.