Correspondence.

• Author: Southon, Gray
• Position: New Zealand's role in global multilateralism - Letter to the editor

Sir,

A variety of recent publications provide valuable complements to the continuing debate on New Zealand's international position, particularly in regard to China, and how we are to maximise our interests in the future. These publications include the NZIR in its last two issues and the two 2012 CSS discussion papers 11 and 12. (1) While most of the discussion understandably focuses on bilateral relations in a regional context, we suggest that such an analysis needs to be broadened to include a greater global perspective, as well as a more rigorous assessment of the role of multilateralism and the United Nations in particular.

A global perspective is necessary to properly recognise China's interests as it increases in economic reach and becomes a global power. While regional relations with its neighbours, and the United States in particular, are vitally important, Chinas demand for resources is prompting it to strengthen ties with countries outside the Asia-Pacific region, such as in Africa and Latin America. These relations will be an important influence on the way that China develops its international perspectives and strategies.

A much more vital global perspective, however, is an appreciation of overall collective, global benefit. To what extent do nations, and big powers in particular, see the rest of the world as resources to be competitively exploited, or as common assets to be collectively nurtured based on agreed rules and principles? Are nations principally interested in asserting narrow self interest in whatever way they can, or in developing systems to enable collective promotion of mutual interest? In short, what is the role of multilateralism, and the United Nations in particular?

New Zealand has always recognised the critical importance of global multilateralism and the rule of law, particularly for smaller nations. It contributed significantly to the formation of the League of Nations and the United Nations. However, the viability of such systems depends vitally on the involvement of the major powers, an issue which has been amply demonstrated by subsequent events in both the League and the United Nations.

A vital objective of New Zealand diplomacy would, therefore, include promoting big power commitment to multilateralism.

In their CSS paper Chris Elder and Rob Ayson demonstrated the significant impact that China has been having in our multilateral institutions, becoming, in some ways, a de facto leader of the developing...