 |
FOREIGN AFFAIRS
INTRODUCTION
New Zealand First was founded on the principle that the interests of New Zealand and New Zealanders are paramount.
However, the world changed following the atrocities of September 11 2001 and subsequent terrorist attacks. Based on this, New Zealand First's approach to international relations is tough-minded, independent, and integrated. It affirms and enhances our country's traditional relationships while recognising the emergence of a global economy, and the realities of regional and international politics.
It is recognised that a strong and independent stance must be accompanied by an inner strength. The emphasis must be on putting our own house in order first. Our economic policy advocates a closely co-ordinated export-oriented strategy that delivers on our vision of an evolutionary, technologically competitive, and balanced agricultural and industrial future.
PLANS
New Zealand First will:
- continue to be a strong supporter of the United Nations. We will work within the organisation to make it more democratic, accountable, and effective;
- provide the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade with adequate resources to promote New Zealand's trade interests internationally;
- focus on facilitating New Zealand's trading performance: seeking improved trade access, developing emerging markets, and promoting industries where there is a clear competitive advantage;
- promote diplomacy as the first option to resolve international conflict with the use of military force only to be used as a final resort when all other means have been exhausted;
- maintain Defence Force roles in international affairs especially in regional peace-keeping;
- remain strongly committed to New Zealand's anti-nuclear policy;
- advocate disarmament and oppose the possession and use of anti-personnel mines, chemical and biological weapons, and other weapons of mass destruction;
- enhance the special New Zealand association and interest in the South Pacific region. As a good neighbour, New Zealand will make the Pacific its major focus of attention;
- review the level of Overseas Development Assistance, and its global allocation and ensure that it is focused on facilitating priority projects, and the alleviation of poverty, particularly in the South Pacific region;
- maintain Radio New Zealand's international services;
- give primary importance to the needs of New Zealand industries and communities. Tariffs will be adjusted at no greater pace than that of our trading partners;
- continue to advocate against the exploitation of Antarctica, for the cessation of all whaling, and for the abolition of nuclear weapons;
- ensure that immigration is in New Zealand's interests;
- review 'family reunification' policies across both the immigrant and refugee categories. In the case of refugees 'family reunification' will be limited to spouses and immediate dependent children only and will be incorporated into the 750 annual quota; and,
- ensure that intelligence gathering is subject to greater and more transparent parliamentary control.
|
|
