New Zealand's AUKUS Alliance: Strengthening Security Ties with Australia

New Zealand's new Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, expressed interest in exploring the benefits of joining the "pillar two" of the AUKUS defense pact, which focuses on shared military technology. Luxon, on his first official trip abroad to Australia, emphasized the importance of close security ties with Australia and stated that New Zealand's nuclear-free stance is non-negotiable. Both countries aim to work together as bedrock partners in the region, addressing shared challenges such as climate change. The new government is expected to prioritize relationships with traditional partners, including those in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing group.