G-G pushes trade on Korean TV

SEOUL - Resistance among South Korean farmers to opening up markets to New Zealand exports should not threaten the "solid relationship" between the two nations, Dame Silvia Cartwright told a Korean television news programme last night.

"We certainly had to overcome problems such as that," Dame Silvia told Arirang TV, referring to the New Zealand agricultural sector's own painful transition to a more competitive market.

"But I think New Zealand and Korea have such a solid relationship that we can work together in areas such as trade liberalisation, and there are many areas which we can explore together for our mutual benefit.

"I don't think it will be all one way."

She pointed to the film industry as one example of ways in which New Zealand and South Korea could benefit each other.

"I'm sure every Korean, practically everyone in the world, now knows that New Zealand has a thriving film industry -- you only have to mention Lord of the Rings to know just how important that industry is," she said.

But what was not so widely known perhaps was the way in which New Zealand's high-tech infrastructure could be put to use for filmmakers from countries such as Korea, she added.

"The opportunities for Korean filmmakers are exceptional."

Other common ground between the two countries included education initiatives, military and trade ties, research science and technology, as well as years working together in multi-national forums such as the United Nations.

"And I think it would be wonderful if, as a result of my visit, we could take a fresh look at the many areas where we have such good strengths, such good friendships," Dame Silvia said.
"We in New Zealand greatly value the partnership we have with Korea in many areas, and I certainly hope it's true the other way round."

She was asked whether the on-going furore over North Korea's nuclear ambitions could affect South Korea's chances of forging ties with countries such as New Zealand.

But Dame Silvia said New Zealand and South Korea had been working hard together on disarmament issues for many years, and pointed to New Zealand's history of anti-nuclear legislation.

"We share similar dreams that one day the world will become nuclear free."

- NZPA