Photo: AFP
Southeast Asia experts in international affairs see broad alignment with New Zealand on economic and security priorities in a survey released Thursday on their perception of the South Pacific nation's foreign policies.
However, the 200 experts from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines included in the survey also highlighted key differences in political and governance ideals.
The Southeast Asian Perceptions of New Zealand report is the first of its kind to be produced by the Asia New Zealand Foundation.
It complements the organisation's annual Perceptions of Asia and Asian Peoples survey, which provides insights for researchers, government officials and the public on how New Zealand views Asia and its people.
The latest findings show that New Zealand generally enjoys an excellent reputation and is seen as principled, trustworthy and genuinely independent in its approach to international affairs.
Asia New Zealand Foundation chief executive Suzannah Jessep said the new research helped New Zealand see itself through the eyes of its closest Southeast Asian neighbours.
Jessep said the research provided valuable insights at a time when New Zealanders felt increasingly connected to Southeast Asia and its engagement with the region was deepening.
"New Zealanders increasingly view Southeast Asia as a close and trusted part of our region - and it's equally important that we understand how our neighbours perceive us," Jessep said.
"That understanding helps us strengthen relationships, tailor engagement and have a more informed public conversation about Asia."
Respondents in the survey described New Zealand as a friend or close friend to their countries, and as a like-minded partner in several key areas, particularly on security and economic matters.
While perceptions were generally positive, respondents expressed a desire for New Zealand to take a stronger and more visible stance on global issues such as trade, climate change and maritime security.
Respondents also indicated a strong appetite for deeper cooperation between Southeast Asia and New Zealand in areas such as education, reflecting the sense that New Zealand's efforts in the region are valued and make a tangible impact.
"New Zealand is seen as investing wisely in the region and the appetite for partnership is there - particularly on shared global challenges, where New Zealand's credibility and capability are recognised," said Julia Macdonald, the foundation's director of research and engagement.
As New Zealand's relationships across Southeast Asia continued to strengthen, the findings helped to reinforce the country's reputation in the region was positive and valuable but, at the same time, expectations were rising as regional challenges evolved.
"Our Southeast Asian partners value what New Zealand brings," Jessep said.
"They see us as a constructive, values-driven country whose voice is worth listening to, which is an encouraging message as we continue to grow our engagement with the region."
