Smith noted that further education cooperation between the two nations are expected in diverse sectors, such as international business, data science, computer science, artificial intelligence, design, architecture and film. Having directly supervised four Chinese PhD students, he was impressed by their talent, passion, hard work and agility.

With New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon visiting China from Tuesday to Friday, Smith pointed out the nation's senior political leaders and the university are aligned in developing and deepening the education partnership between the two nations.

"New Zealand deeply values its longstanding relationship with China, and we are proud to welcome Chinese students to our world-class institutions, where they gain not only academic knowledge but also the language and cultural skills to thrive in a global environment. We look forward to continuing to support Chinese learners on their journey and to strengthening the ties between our two countries through education provided by all of New Zealand's universities, including Victoria University of Wellington," said the prime minister.

In the global context of increasing uncertainties, Smith also highlighted the importance for governments and educational institutions to providing staff and students "a kind of certainty" to allow them to thrive and make big, bold and audacious actions.

"In New Zealand, we are very focused on providing that kind of stability and belonging to allow people to move forward. I am here and my Prime Minister is here to assure that young Chinese people will be welcomed and included in New Zealand … Together, we can prepare students to thrive as global citizens in an increasingly connected world," he said.