Venue: Lecture Theatre 2 (RHLT 2), Rutherford House, Pipitea Campus, Victoria University of Wellington (map)
In-person registration essential for contact tracing purposes: ChinaCentre@vuw.ac.nz
Date: Thursday, 11 November 2021
Time: 5:30-6:30 pm
Zoom registration link https://vuw.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_r0WuXBvYRHSp2itZMfQMEw

Abstract 

New Zealand, like many countries, faces unprecedented challenges in maintaining a relationship with a powerful and, in the eyes of many, an aggressive China. And should it even try?

Many commentators rule out normal relations with the People’s Republic on both pragmatic and moral grounds – pragmatic because China will only permit relations on its own one-sided terms; moral because to accept those terms would be to betray principles which underpin New Zealand foreign policy.

From such a perspective the many frictions in China’s relations with the rest of the world, including those that shadow its relations with New Zealand, are bundled together into a sombre picture of a menacing rising superpower. The implications of this for the world beyond China are daunting.

China’s problematic actions and influence have many distinct causes, including historical ones, and take place in a range of settings. Unpacked in such fashion they are less daunting.

Equally, history and diplomacy provide guidance on ways in which New Zealand can speak up about civil and political rights and repression in China without foregoing a relationship with that country.

In sum might it be possible, even if not simple, for New Zealand to have a relationship with China that is neither supine nor adversarial, and which is consistent with an independent foreign policy?

About the Speaker 
Malcolm McKinnon is a Wellington historian. He has taught for many years in the School of History, Philosophy, Political Science and International Relations at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington. He is the author of a number of works on New Zealand’s external relations including Independence and Foreign Policy: New Zealand in the world since 1935; Immigrants and citizens: New Zealand and Asian immigration in historical context; and New Zealand and ASEAN: a history.

Zoom Link: https://vuw.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_r0WuXBvYRHSp2itZMfQMEw

Covid protocols for in-person attendance.

This event will adhere to all government recommendations for Covid safety and may include some additional measures:

- You must not attend the event if you are feeling unwell or have any symptoms.

- You will need to check-in via the QR code upon entry at Bunny Street main doors.

- Hand sanitiser and face masks will be available – we recommend all attendees wear a face mask during the presentation.

- Social distancing will be employed in the venue to ensure that you are at a safe distance from other attendees.

- If you develop symptoms or test positive to Covid19 following the event please immediately email