Third-highest-ranking member of Chinese Government visits Parliament

Speaker Gerry Brownlee (left) with Zhao Leji, the chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, who is in New Zealand for a series of visits. Photo / Giles Dexter

By RNZ

The third-highest-ranking member of the Chinese Government has visited Parliament and held a bilateral meeting with Speaker Gerry Brownlee.

Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, is in New Zealand for a series of visits.

In China’s pecking order, Zhao sits only below President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in order of importance.

Security was tightened on the precinct in Wellington on Thursday, with barriers restricting access to the forecourt.

About 100 supporters were on Parliament’s lawn waving flags, while a small group of protesters was on the other side.

The two sides were separated by fences.

Zhao and his delegation were welcomed into Parliament’s Grand Hall with a pōwhiri.

Supporters of the Chinese Government outside Parliament during Zhao Leji's visit. Photo / Giles Dexter

Brownlee took Zhao through the history of New Zealand and its democratic systems.

He said it was an “honour” that representatives from a country as old and populous as China had made the visit.

“The willingness that you have to embrace discussions with us, trade with us, and people relations with us is very welcome,” Brownlee said.

Zhao, remarking that he felt “very warm” in his korowai, praised the relationship.

He said despite the “changing international landscape”, China and New Zealand enjoyed a mutual understanding and close bond.

On Thursday morning, Zhao made a courtesy call on Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Auckland.

He is also expected to unveil a plaque at the opening ceremony of the Rewi Alley Memorial Museum in Christchurch on Friday.

– RNZ