New Zealand and Uruguay are deepening their diplomatic and economic relationship, with Foreign Minister Winston Peters describing the two nations as natural partners during high level talks in Montevideo.
The visit forms part of a wider Latin American tour aimed at strengthening political and trade relationships across the region. During meetings with Uruguay’s President Yamandú Orsi and Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin, Peters said the similarities between the two countries make closer cooperation both logical and necessary.
“Today’s discussions in Montevideo have underlined that New Zealand and Uruguay have much in common, as small, export-oriented countries buffeted by global forces over which we have little control,” Mr Peters says.
According to Peters, both nations share a commitment to democratic governance, open economies and international cooperation. He stressed that partnerships between like minded countries are particularly important during periods of global instability.
“In these uncertain and challenging times, it’s vital that small, like-minded countries such as New Zealand and Uruguay work together to protect and advance our mutual interests.
“We should be promoting democracy, human rights and the international, rules-based system, and deepening our long-standing and mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation. There is broad scope for doing more together, including on trade policy, education, sport, science and culture.”
Following their discussions, the two foreign ministers issued a joint statement outlining shared priorities and areas for future collaboration. Peters is travelling with a delegation that includes Members of Parliament and business leaders, highlighting the strong commercial focus of the trip.
Uruguay has signalled significant interest in expanding engagement with New Zealand companies, particularly in industries involving advanced technology and primary sector innovation. Peters noted that sectors such as forestry and agricultural technology present strong opportunities for future cooperation.
“Our discussions with the President and Foreign Minister highlighted how much Uruguay welcomes the significant New Zealand business engagement here – and the potential for this to grow further, especially in high value-added sectors, such as forestry and agribusiness technology. Uruguay and New Zealand also have an abiding interest in trading arrangements that boost exports,” Mr Peters says.
Alongside economic discussions, the meetings also covered major international developments. Leaders exchanged views on global geopolitical tensions and regional stability, including issues involving Iran, Ukraine and Venezuela, as well as broader strategic dynamics affecting both Latin America and the Indo-Pacific region.
While in Montevideo, Peters is also scheduled to attend a New Zealand Uruguay friendship dinner where members of the visiting delegation will meet with government officials and business representatives from across Uruguay. The event aims to strengthen people to people connections and build long term partnerships between the two countries.
During the evening, Peters will also recognise the contribution of Uruguay’s New Zealand Honorary Consul, Ricardo Shaw, acknowledging his 13 years of service supporting diplomatic and commercial ties.
The visit to Uruguay is one stage of a wider diplomatic mission across South America and the Pacific. Peters and the accompanying delegation are scheduled to travel next to Brazil, before continuing to Chile, including stops in Santiago and Rapa Nui, followed by a programme in French Polynesia.
Officials say the trip is designed to expand New Zealand’s strategic relationships in the region and identify new economic opportunities for exporters and investors.
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