A recent report from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) warns that China is using New Zealand to access key information through the country’s membership in “Five Eyes,” an intelligence sharing partnership between the US, the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
The country’s small size, population, and economy allow easier infiltration through business, universities, research centers, and other connections heavily reliant on China and Chinese investment.
“’New Zealand provides a vivid case study of China’s willingness to use economic ties to interfere with the political life of a partner country,’ the report stated, warning that smaller states were particularly vulnerable to Chinese influence.”
