New Zealand–Mexico diplomacy insights

This interview with Mexico’s ambassador to New Zealand, HE Alfredo Pérez Bravo, provides a comprehensive overview of the bilateral relations between the two countries. Highlighting the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, the ambassador discusses the growth in trade, cultural exchanges and challenges posed by geographical distance. Emphasising the impact of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), he suggests pragmatic strategies for future collaboration. Addressing the vibrant Mexican community in New Zealand, the interview also underscores the importance of modernising diplomatic relations, fostering individual connections and capitalising on mutual strengths for a more dynamic partnership.

HE Alfredo Pérez Bravo has been Mexico’s ambassador to New Zealand, with cross-accreditation to Samoa, Tonga and Tuvalu, since 2019. A career diplomat in the Mexican Foreign Service, with 48 years of service in the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he has, in the the past 34 years, represented Mexico in 52 countries in Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia, Europe and Oceania.

Pilatowsky: How would you describe the current state of diplomatic relations between Mexico and New Zealand?

Pérez Bravo: The year 2023 marked a milestone in Mexico–New Zealand relations with the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations. Two events were held, in Auckland and Wellington, attended by entrepreneurs, academics and experts from various fields. These events gauged the pulse of the bilateral relationship and the different perspectives on its meaning. Mexico is New Zealand’s main trading partner in all of Latin America, putting us in a very peculiar situation.

I have been working at the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs for 48 years. When arriving in a country as an ambassador, it is crucial to analyse the presence of conflicts in the bilateral relationship. There are no conflicts in the case of Mexico and New Zealand, but rather the relationship has unfolded in a spirit of collaboration and friendship, supported by a high degree of agreement between both countries.

Despite the absence of conflicts, the relationship has not yet reached its full potential, considering the size and international importance of both nations. Mexico stands out as one of the main global players in foreign trade. For example, we are on the list of the top ten countries in the world in food production and on the list of the fifteen largest economies, surpassing our Latin American neighbours. New Zealand is a relatively small country with a population of 5 million, but it has an influential voice in multilateral forums. New Zealand has a series of attributes that make it an exemplary country in terms of minority inclusion, gender equality, respect for human rights, absence of corruption and transparency. Therefore, the relationship should be expanded in terms of trade, academics, culture and technology. The pandemic, which caused the closure of borders for more than two years, has been a significant obstacle, interrupting the exchange of people, delegations and key events for the bilateral relationship.

Currently, there is a process of relaunching the relationship underway to overcome the impasse caused by the pandemic. Over the past four decades, relations have focused on multilateral contacts, with a limited bilateral approach. Latin America has not been a priority in New Zealand’s foreign policy, as seen, for example, in the speeches of the foreign ministers. This is understandable for many reasons, especially geographical ones. However, joint involvement in multilateral forums has been very active. Delegations from Mexico and New Zealand have worked together to advance positions and international documents. An example is our shared positions against the proliferation of nuclear weapons. Thus, there are many coincidences, and on the bilateral front the relationship has been opening up over the past three decades, especially thanks to the growth of the Mexican community in New Zealand. Twenty-five years ago, there were about 50 Mexicans in New Zealand. Now there are around 3000 individuals.

Pilatowsky: What are the key areas of co-operation and collaboration between Mexico and New Zealand at this time?

Pérez Bravo: New Zealand and Mexico have a history of active collaboration in the multilateral arena. Over the past two years, the implementation of the first free trade agreement, known as the CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership), has been a significant development. As founders of the agreement, Mexico and New Zealand have worked together to make this possible. During the pandemic, an interesting collaboration emerged between the two countries, particularly in the healthcare sector, given Mexico’s role as a producer of medical equipment. For example, Fisher & Paykel, a company with offices in Tijuana, experienced a surge in producing user-friendly respirators with the involvement of Mexican engineers. This collaboration led to an increase in trade as Mexico exported medical equipment, and New Zealand’s investments contributed to the increase in production.

Academic co-operation is another key area of interest. There is mutual interest between Mexican and New Zealand universities to establish deeper collaborations, but travel restrictions and economic impacts on university budgets have been significant obstacles. New Zealand universities have stopped receiving foreign students, which has significantly affected their revenue. In the case of Mexico, academic exchanges have primarily focused on the United States, with recent expansions to Europe and Asia.

Additionally, the cultural aspect has been crucial since my arrival four years ago. In New Zealand, I have observed a unique affinity for Mexican culture, particularly in terms of gastronomy. Even in small communities, there are Mexican restaurants, often with a Tex-Mex influence. It is interesting to note that many New Zealanders express having visited Mexico. Despite the geographical distance, New Zealanders who travel have chosen Mexico as a destination. This cultural connection remains easily and spontaneously maintained, unaffected by the distance. I al- so observe that Mexican museum curators continue to collaborate with museums in New Zealand, such as Te Papa. Moreover, researchers have maintained contact with groups and universities in Mexico during the pandemic. This dynamic will continue to increase in the future.

Pilatowsky: New Zealand and Mexico are geographically distant. What opportunities and challenges does this present for strengthening ties?

Pérez Bravo: Having served as the head of eight embassies and been accredited as Mexico’s ambassador to 52 countries, I bring 34 years of experience in the ambassadorial rank. Over this period, my perspective on relationships has evolved into a more reasoned structure than in the early stages.

As I stated earlier, when assuming the role of ambassador, the initial task is to conduct an objective analysis of the state of the relationship. It goes beyond reviewing official documents; it is crucial to understand how Mexico is perceived in the host country. In my experiences in Russia, Malaysia and Portugal, there was limited information about Mexico. Many Kiwis, even those well-educated, sometimes view Mexico as a South American country and lack a clear understanding of our relationship with the United States. Providing accurate information becomes a challenge, especially when media coverage of Mexico may not be favourable.

In essence, the challenge lies in supplying information. In discussions with the Latin America CAPE (Centre for Asia–Pacific Excellence), I emphasise the need for a rigorous analysis of Latin America, as often it is viewed as a singular entity.

Drawing from my experience as an ambassador in Africa from 1990 to 1994, accredited to 39 countries, it is essential to recognise that Africa is not a homogenous entity but a collection of diverse nations. Similarly, the same misconception occurs here. Latin America is a region with vast economic disparities and distinct differences. Information gaps are crucial, as opportunities are identified based on awareness.

The challenge extends to Mexico and New Zealand. If you were to ask people in Mexico about New Zealand, their knowledge might be limited to its natural beauty and rugby. The interest arises from information and knowledge. We cannot ignore the geographical distance, but we must be aware of it.

Language plays a pivotal role. The Working Holiday Visa programme is a case in point. While there is considerable de- mand from thousands of Mexicans eager to participate, Kiwis have a limited interest in going to Mexico due to the language barrier. This linguistic disparity influences the success of programmes and initiatives. As ambassador, I have advocated for the importance of the Spanish language, reaching out to universities like Victoria University of Wellington, emphasising its significance as the second most widely spoken language after English. Language serves as a crucial tool for fostering connections.

Pilatowsky: How would you describe the current trade and economic relations between both countries, and what advice would you give to entrepreneurs?

Pérez Bravo: Before the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership came into effect, there were no treaties, and the relationship between Mexico and New Zealand was quite modest. This agreement changed the commercial landscape. In the last three years, trade has grown by 40 per cent. Currently, our trade stands at over $700 million per year. When I arrived as ambassador, trade was around $440 or 450 million. Now it is over $700 million, but I suspect it is even higher because the figures are not entirely documented; there is a lot of unregistered trade. The treaty has given another dimension to the commercial relationship.

My advice to New Zealand entrepreneurs is that anyone looking to engage in any activity must first gather comprehensive information about the sector they want to participate in. Entering the vast Mexican market without adequate information or contacts can be challenging and fraught with risks. Therefore, it is essential to understand the markets, mechanisms and the CPTPP before engaging in any activity.

To navigate the Mexican market confidently, I advise entrepreneurs to follow these recommendations: firstly, consult other New Zealand companies operating in the country; secondly, ask companies from your country about their experience in Mexico; and lastly, find a good local partner. A good partner can provide quality information and guidance, allowing you to understand the terrain better. They can also provide information about notaries and lawyers and advise on where to go and where not to. It is equally important to consider the embassies, universities, non-governmental organisations, scientists and recognised chambers of commerce to gather valuable information.

Pilatowsky: What programmes or cultural exchange initiatives are currently in place between Mexico and New Zealand?

Pérez Bravo: Officially, the only programme currently operating is the Working Holiday Visa. There are no scholarships or official programmes to fund researchers, scientists or academics, or anything at an official level, which is a gap that needs to be addressed. Financial resources have been allocated to other areas. With new governments come new priorities and ways to support different sectors. New Zealand should keep this in mind while creating programmes that can support contributions in the scientific and academic realms.

In my opinion, after four years as ambassador, one of the most important sectors for Mexico is the training of human resources. I am convinced that New Zealand can offer us a lot in terms of human resource development. It has excellent universities, and many Mexicans pursuing post-graduate studies in New Zealand have made significant progress in their academic work thanks to the high level of study and research in New Zealand. There are sectors where Mexico should focus, especially in agro-industrial, genetic engineering and food productivity. In New Zealand, these sectors are very advanced. While Mexico has sought technology from the United States and Germany, in many regions of Mexico, such as the south-east, New Zealand’s innovation would be very useful, especially in the dairy industry and agri-industry.

For instance, Lincoln University has a magnificent research programme. A Mexican is currently studying in a post-doctoral programme on the possibilities of the land to increase plants’ nutrient absorption. Mexico allocates significant amounts of water for agriculture, while urban centres are thirsty for water and face significant leaks. We could learn from New Zealand on optimising water use in agriculture. Hence, there is a need to train Mexican human resources in New Zealand. An approach is needed that trains human resources but ensures that these resources will return to Mexico. Many people who come for training end up staying in New Zealand and do not generate benefits for Mexico.

Pilatowsky: What would you recommend to improve the procedures for Mexicans to study or conduct research in New Zealand?

Pérez Bravo: The change in priorities in the bilateral relations between New Zealand and Mexico has affected students and researchers. The immigration policy of New Zealand is highly restrictive, and obtaining a visa can be a challenging and timeconsuming process. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed as many students from Africa, Latin America and the Middle East are facing difficulties in obtaining visas, despite having the means to fund their studies. In contrast, students from China, Korea, Malaysia and Japan have been arriving in New Zealand.

While attending a meeting organised by Education New Zealand, I learned about the appeal of studying at New Zealand universities. I found it surprising that there has been a significant decrease in the number of students from certain regions following the pandemic. For this reason, I advise students to prioritise the visa process as it can prevent them from having problems even if everything is arranged at the university.

Additionally, I have proposed to the governments of various Mexican states to fund the travel and tuition of ten young individuals to study in New Zealand. The commitment from the students would be to return to Mexico and apply their knowl- edge in the productive sector of the states. This will help in the progress of having specialists in Mexico.

I have also suggested increasing the number of work holiday visas in New Zealand. The current scheme allows young individuals to only find employment for three months, which makes it challenging to secure a job unless it is in the hospitality and services sectors. Therefore, it is essential to revise current immigration policies to make it easier for students and researchers to come to New Zealand.

Pilatowsky: What can you tell us about the role of the Mexican community in New Zealand and its contribution to the bilateral relationship?

Pérez Bravo: According to our census, there are around 3000 registered Mexicans in New Zealand. The majority of them, 80 per cent, are young individuals under the age of 50. Surprisingly, 70 per cent of them have a university degree, including individuals with master’s degrees, doctorates or post-doctorates. Mexicans in New Zealand are known for their high level of education, and most of them are well-placed in academia or in managerial positions in companies. Some even own their own businesses, such as restaurants. Being a well-educated group, Mexicans have a significant impact on the development of the society where they are located, especially when considering that New Zealand has a population of only 5 million people. The Mexican community has made a notable contribution to the bilateral relationship between Mexico and New Zealand, and I am proud of my relationship with this community.

Pilatowsky: Mexico and New Zealand have been active proponents of international organisations and initiatives. Are there specific global issues or forums where both countries consistently align?

33 Latin American countries, the United States and some European countries. This treaty gave rise to the Agency for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean (OPANAL). Additionally, both Mexico and New Zealand have joined forces in the fight for gender equality, disarmament, human rights and the protection of the environment.

Pilatowsky: How do you envision the future of the Mexico–New Zealand relationship, and what steps are being taken to further strengthen these ties?

Pérez Bravo: Relationships must learn to modernise, to adapt to the times, and in this regard I see that this relationship must become more pragmatic and effective. It should carefully define the niches that can enhance benefits for both parties and work from there to make that sector more dynamic and efficient, whether at an institutional or governmental level.

Another aspect to work on is to make the relationship increasingly about individuals rather than government departments. As there is a broad base of scientists, their personal contact with Mexican scientists is crucial for the relationship.

In the coming years, the focus of the relationship should shift towards a strategy of precision targeting specific areas, sectors and individuals, fostering greater exchange and interaction among people and aligning the multilateral efforts of Mexico and New Zealand with bilateral co-operation between the two countries. While there is excellent collaboration on international issues, there is minimal collaboration and communication at the bilateral level between New Zealand and Mexican institutions. The challenge is to make bilateral what is currently multilateral, finding synergy between these two areas.

Pilatowsky: As ambassador, what do you consider to be the most significant achievements in the relationship between Mexico and New Zealand during your tenure?

Pérez Bravo: I have been in my position for four years, and I will continue to serve for some more time. The original programme I brought, which focused on meetings and delegations, had to be abandoned due to the prolonged border closures that lasted for over two years. This atypical situation has defined my management style.

A significant accomplishment has been restoring Mexico to the forefront of New Zealand’s foreign policy. A key aspect of my efforts has involved defining and cultivating the specific niches that each country offers to the other. One example is the promotion of information about the CPTPP. We ensured that stakeholders, businesses and the public were well-informed about the benefits and implications of this agreement. This initiative has been pivotal in nurturing a more dynamic relationship with active participation across various sectors.

Pérez Bravo: We have observed a remarkable 95 per cent alignment in positions between Mexico and New Zealand on global issues. Few countries exhibit such a high degree of consistency. The significance lies in the positive energy generated by the collaborative engagement of Mexico and New Zealand within the international system. For example, we agree on the fight against the proliferation of nuclear weapons. Mexico hosted the celebration of the Treaty of Tlatelolco (1967), ratified by

Albeit less apparent, another achievement is the maintenance of a conflict- free relationship, especially in the realm of commerce. Another notable success of the Mexican embassy has been the attention devoted to the Mexican community in New Zealand. We played a crucial role in assisting over 400 stranded compatriots through co-ordinated rescues and establishing a newfound, close rapport between them and the embassy. We successfully organised celebratory events such as the Day of the Dead, created videos and interviews featuring community members and promoted academic gatherings, like a conference with twelve Mexican post-doctoral researchers in Christchurch. Despite facing logistical and international challenges, we sustained and bolstered the commercial relationship, particularly during the border closures.

Priscila Pilatowsky Goñi interviews Alfredo Pérez Bravo, Mexico’s ambassador to New Zealand.

Priscila Pilatowsky Goñi interviews Alfredo Pérez Bravo, Mexico’s ambassador to New Zealand.