Winston Peters and Helen Clark often disagree, but they both agree that the United Nations Security Council is failing. Peters, the foreign minister, and Clark, a former prime minister, have criticized the coalition government for being too close to the U.S. and risking trade with China. Peters denies this, saying the current situation with AUKUS is similar to what the previous Labour government was considering.
Recently, Clark spoke at the U.N. Security Council, discussing the Israel-Palestine conflict. She condemned the terrorist attacks by Hamas and Israel’s military response. Clark, a member of The Elders group formed by Nelson Mandela, expressed concern that the Security Council has not acted on its own resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza. She believes a new approach, based on international law, is necessary. Clark criticized the council for failing to enforce its resolutions, which questions its credibility.
Peters is expected to share similar views at the U.N. General Assembly. He will discuss global issues, highlighting conflicts like Ukraine and the Middle East, which affect small nations like New Zealand. Peters promotes the idea that all countries, regardless of size, should have their voices heard.
During his time in New York, Peters will meet with leaders from the U.S., including President Joe Biden, and other countries like Canada and Egypt. He has already visited many Pacific nations and is focused on building diplomatic relations. Additionally, he will chair a meeting with the U.N. Secretary-General and Pacific leaders and co-chair a panel on sea-level rise in the Pacific.
