Into the Last Two Decades of the Twentieth Century and the Start of the Twenty-First

This chapter reviews New Zealand’s relations with Asia at the end of the twentieth century. First, through review of the ‘amicable’ relationship that appeared to be developing with China. Then the ‘testy’ relationship with Japan which saw relations developing but with significant difficulties. Then India, still a family relationship but at ‘arms-length’ because of the poor prospects for export trade with India. Finally, relations with ASEAN and APEC and the many other economic partnership agreements and free trade agreements which brought New Zealand into engagement with Asian countries.