Premier Li Keqiang called for respecting each other's core interests and major concerns on the basis of equality during separate meetings with US National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien and New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Nov 4.

The meetings took place on the sidelines of the 14th East Asia Summit in Bangkok, Thailand.

In his meeting with Ardern, Premier Li said China is committed to creating a world-class business environment established on market principles and the rule of law, and hopes that New Zealand would create an environment of fair competition for Chinese businesses investing in the country.

China was pleased to see the conclusion of the negotiations to upgrade the bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with New Zealand, which has sent a strong signal to the world that the two countries are supporting free trade with concrete actions, he said.

China is willing to join hands with New Zealand to respect each other's core interests and major concerns on the basis of treating each other equally and seeking common ground while reserving differences, said the Premier.

Ardern said the conclusion of negotiations to upgrade the bilateral FTA with China would bring more opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation.

She said her country is ready to offer a non-discriminative environment for enterprises from all countries doing business in New Zealand.

After the meeting, the two sides issued a joint press statement announcing the conclusion of the negotiations to upgrade the FTA.