Will’s Word: Winston Peters calls for Pacific-first foreign policy focus

Foreign Affairs Minister Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters made quite a statement yesterday, and it made me think and reflect.

Without going into too much detail, the Foreign Affairs Minister basically said that New Zealand can't fix every conflict, but that doesn't mean we turn away. Of course, it's been two years since the October 7 attack in Israel.

The world is still trapped in the same tragic loop: hostages, airstrikes, funerals and famine. Winston called Hamas' attack “heinous”, and he went on to say that no cause and no grievance justifies that kind of terror.

But he also recognised what too many avoid saying. That Israel's military response has been overwhelming, and that Palestinian civilians have paid a disproportionate price for the sins of Hamas.

Yet, his larger point yesterday as he spoke in the House, to fellow politicians, was one of focus. He said New Zealand's influence is limited.

We can't dictate peace talks or redraw borders but what we can do is use our voice with integrity, back diplomacy, and make sure our aid reaches those who need it most.

Listen to Will’s Word on Facebook below.

Winston's right when he says that our foreign policy should also be focused on what's going on in the Pacific. Some people have been quick to say, ‘that's a retreat from the issues that are taking place in the world’, but it's a fair assessment to actually say it was more of a refocus.

Because helping our own region thrive doesn't mean ignoring Gaza. It means making sure New Zealand's compassion is matched by capacity. So as I listened to his speech in the House yesterday, surprisingly, I found myself nodding along.

To an extent, I agreed with his sentiment, which is quite rare, might I add. Foreign policy focused on the Pacific region for Aotearoa is not a bad thing. But also, let's not lose sight of what's happening in places like Gaza and Ukraine.

That's Will's Word.