Exclusive interview with fmr. New Zealand PM Jenny Shipley

As the first developed country to sign a free trade agreement with China, New Zealand has positioned itself as a key partner in China's global economic network. What are the prospects for China-New Zealand relations amid growing economic ties? In this edition of Leaders Talk, CMG's Wang Guan sat down with former New Zealand Prime Minister Jenny Shipley, a long-time advocate for China-New Zealand relations, at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference last March. Shipley praised China's development and President Xi's vision for peaceful, shared growth, highlighting the importance of calm global leadership and continued cooperation. Shipley played a key role in launching China's first FTA talks and today, strong trade ties – symbolized by the kiwifruit connection – make China New Zealand's top trading partner.