New Zealand’s government has come under fire for keeping its talks with the United States over critical minerals under wraps, as opposition parties level accusations of secrecy amid mounting concern about environmental damage and foreign influence.

Analysts say Wellington is reluctant to promote any formal agreement with Washington or invite public debate on the issue, even as both governments have confirmed that they are “exploring further opportunities” on critical minerals cooperation.

In a joint statement released after a meeting in Washington on February 2, the two sides said they would deepen collaboration on critical minerals, energy, emerging technologies and the digital economy “to ensure economic resilience and mutual prosperity”.

That commitment followed the pair’s annual “strategic dialogue”, which this year featured US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and New Zealand’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade Bede Corry.

Attendees gather during the Critical Minerals Ministerial meeting at the State Department in Washington on February 4. Photo: Reuters

Attendees gather during the Critical Minerals Ministerial meeting at the State Department in Washington on February 4. Photo: Reuters

Discussions included the creation of a US-New Zealand Critical Minerals Framework, with Landau welcoming Wellington’s participation in the US-hosted Critical Minerals Ministerial held later that same week.