China’s Attitude To N.Z.

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30855, 14 September 1965, Page 7

China’s Attitude To N.Z.

CN.Z. Press Association) WHANGAREI, Sept. 13.

The Chinese Premier, Chou En-lai, believes if Australia and New Zealand continue to maintain troops in South Vietnam, China will “have to reconsider this special situation” with regard to trade with both countries.

Interviewed by Frank Molesworth, a leader writer of the '“Northern Advocate,” who has just returned after a month’s visit to China, Mr Chou said it was not a matter simply of being unfriendly toward China but one of carrying out “armed aggression in the face of the people.” Asked what were the prime requisites for an understanding between New Zealand and China, Mr Chou said it was rathr difficult to say because such relationships were first determined by political relations between the two governments.

“And you are aware that the policy of your Govern-

ment, to say the least, is not friendly,” he said. If there were a desire for trade, then China would not refuse contacts with trade groups or even agencies influenced by the New Zealand Government.

“Speaking in general, our attitude is that all those who are friendly to China, including those engaged in science, culture and journalism and from the trade unions, youth and women’s organisations, as well as those engaged in general political activities, may have friendly exchanges with us in an appropriate way and in accordance with the desires of both sides,” he said. “Speaking in particular, there are special reasons why we will not accept those from the United States, South

Africa, Portugal, Israel, Malaysia, the puppet regimes of South Korea and South Vietnam, even if those persons may have friendly feelings toward China. “To your question, ‘Does China want to expand?’ my reply is that this is not only not permitted under China’s social system, but our policy is against expansion anywhere. We not only advocate this view but act accordingly. Our actions show that whatever we say will be put into p rt aci ec. practice. “Although New Zealand is a capitalist country, it does not necessarily mean that there are obstacles to diplomatic, trade and cultural relations between China and New Zealand.

“There are no diplomatic relations between our two countries. The cause does not lie on our part, but lies with the New Zealand Government.”