Uruguay and New Zealand
Strategic Partners, Shared Values
Uruguay and New Zealand have an excellent bilateral relationship, based on a deep community of values and a shared vision on key issues such as multilateralism, democracy, the defence of human rights and sustainability. This affinity is reinforced by structural similarities: similar size of their territories, openness to the world and complementary economies, which makes New Zealand a natural and strategic partner for Uruguay.
International Cooperation and Global Alliances
Both countries are strong advocates of the rules-based international system and natural allies in multilateral forums. They agree on issues of human rights, protection of civilians, the environment and the Responsibility to Protect (R2P), in addition to sharing common visions of Antarctic governance.
Innovation, Sustainability and Agriculture of the Future
Uruguay and New Zealand have identified key areas of cooperation in sustainable production, climate change adaptation, and innovation in agriculture. Historically, collaboration in agricultural and livestock research has been a pillar of the bilateral relationship.
Both countries share a common vision regarding the development of more resilient production systems with less environmental impact. They are founding members of the Global Alliance for Research on Greenhouse Gases in Agriculture (GRA), where they actively cooperate in reducing emissions from the agricultural sector, combining science, technology and sustainable practices.
This commitment was consolidated with the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation in the area of Agriculture and Livestock in 2019, which promotes initiatives for technical dialogue, knowledge exchange and development of joint policies in key areas for both countries.