Speaking at a press conference alongside Mahuta on Thursday, Sen Payne was questioned on whether Australia wants New Zealand to take a stronger line on China, or if Australia - as suggested by Damien O Connor - should show respect and use more diplomacy.
Sen Payne appeared to make a subtle jab at O Connor in her reply on Thursday. One thing I have learnt in my role in this job as Australia s Foreign Minister is not to give advice to other countries, she told reporters in the Beehive. I can talk about the Australia-China relationship and our ongoing commitments about positive engagement with China.
Nigel Farage claims New Zealand launching alliance with China, leaving Five Eyes, despite Jacinda Ardern, Nanaia Mahuta saying otherwise
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Farage claims NZ launching alliance with China, leaving Five Eyes despite Ardern saying otherwise
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