Peters Urges Strong US Role in Pacific to Counter Regional Threats

New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters has called for strong US involvement in the Pacific region, warning of a more troubled and unsettled world.

In his final major foreign policy speech before New Zealand's November 7 election, Peters noted unwelcome geopolitical manoeuvring in the region, including missile tests without permission or adequate notice, naval exercises edging ever-further southwards, and the threat to Pacific neighbours and New Zealand from organised transnational crime.

Peters said the US is a Pacific power that needs an engaged America in support of regional prosperity and security. He pointed to Washington's $150 million in support for Pacific Islands announced in Palau, which he called 'welcome recognition' that they have listened and are responding to concerns raised by Wellington and other regional partners.

New Zealand has sought to reinforce its role in the Pacific through aid, defence cooperation, and diplomatic engagement, while urging larger partners including the US to listen more closely to the priorities of island governments. Peters said New Zealanders are living in a deeply troubled world, with global economy disrupted by uncertainty, trade protectionism, and other challenges.