New Zealand PM says ‘tough conversations’ with China better than no talks

News Snapshot:

SYDNEY, July 7 (Reuters) - Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said on Friday New Zealand will require continued engagement with China, its largest trading partner, but would disagree with Beijing in areas where it challenges New Zealand's national interests. New Zealand has long been seen as a moderate or even absent voice on China in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance, which includes the United States and allies, and is carefully managing its relationship with China amid the strategic rivalry between Beijing and Washington. "A strong, mature and complex relationship (with China) means we will have those tough conversations ... but I...