The two leaders met in New Zealand, hosted by Jacinda Ardern to talk about post-Covid-19 rules. Their discussion was about how to reopen to the world after the Covid-19 pandemic.
Ardern acknowledged that both countries might not always agree but in a complex time and environment, said “Australia, you are family.” Scott Morrison also emphasised that the two countries must have a close relationship and partnership to advance out of the Covid-19 related recession. Arden and Morrison performed a traditional ‘Hongi’ during their meeting which is a Maori greeting, where two individuals touch foreheads to signify closeness. This demonstration also is significant as it’s believed to be the first meeting of world leaders without masks since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Rising tensions with China and the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic were the likely topics of the meeting. With Australia’s worsening trade relationship with China, Arden realises that New Zealand cannot ignore this as “it may only be a matter of time before the storm gets closer to us.” With China accounting for nearly 30% of New Zealand exports, Arden has to consider if trade relationships worsen with China, will New Zealand be able to withstand the consequences?
The leaders also discussed expanding the travel bubble. With Victoria going into lockdown again, Morrison said “We will continue to support Victoria to get Victoria open and to do everything we can to ensure that Victoria does not close itself again.”