On July 15, 2026, Vice President Han Zheng met with former New Zealand Prime Minister John Key in Beijing.

Han Zheng stated that China appreciates Mr. John Key's long-term important contributions to the development of China-New Zealand relations. Currently, the China-New Zealand Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has entered its second decade, and the development of bilateral relations faces broader prospects. China is willing to work with New Zealand to effectively implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, expand and deepen exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and promote the continuous development of China-New Zealand relations. China's development provides positive energy and certainty to the world, and it will continue to be committed to promoting peace, stability, development and prosperity in the Pacific region.

John Key said that China's sustained and rapid development has provided huge market opportunities for New Zealand. Currently, New Zealand-China relations are developing steadily. New Zealand has always regarded China as a friend and hopes that the two sides will further strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture and other fields, and work together to address regional and global challenges through dialogue and communication. He is willing to continue to make efforts to promote the development of New Zealand-China relations.