The Foreign Affairs Minister is not sure if New Zealand has offended China, but admits a statement made by a government official about removing the eyes of those who interfere with the country's business is "strongly worded". Dom Thomas/RNZ New Zealand Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta. Nanaia Mahuta said she could not assess if the statement was a threat, but "words can be interpreted in many ways". Mahuta was not sure if the Five Eyes' statement had offended China but said she intended to speak to Chinese officials soon. Mahuta stressed that New Zealand has a respectful relationship with China that is "maturing".

Source: Stuff November 20, 2020 06:00 UTC