Archive · 30 Jul 2026
New Zealand Foreign Minister Sparks Racism Row with Chinese MP
In New Zealand’s parliament, the foreign minister Winston Peters said a Chinese‑born MP should "go back" to his country and called him a "loudmouth".
The comment made many people angry, including the Chinese ambassador to New Zealand, Wang Xiaolong, who posted on the social‑media site X. Peters later said the ambassador’s post proved his point about democracy.
The incident shows how politicians can use hurtful words that upset people and even other countries.
It also reminds us that words matter, especially in politics.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters used the slur “go back” and “loudmouth” against Chinese‑born MP Lawrence Xu‑Nan during a parliamentary debate on July 30, 2026.
The remarks sparked widespread condemnation from netizens, the Chinese ambassador Wang Xiaolong, and New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
Wang Xiaolong posted on X, stating New Zealand had no interest in being drawn into other countries’ domestic politics.
Peters later defended his comments on X, claiming the ambassador’s post proved his point about democratic values.
The incident follows a pattern of racially charged remarks by Peters and his party, including earlier references to Mexicans and the “butter chicken tsunami”.
- Who
- New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Chinese‑born MP Lawrence Xu‑Nan
- What
- Peters used the slur “go back” and “loudmouth” during a parliamentary debate
- When
- July 30, 2026
- Where
- New Zealand Parliament, Wellington
- Why
- Peters criticized Xu‑Nan’s Covid‑vaccination question, sparking backlash and diplomatic comments
- Foreign Minister
- Winston Peters
- MP Targeted
- Lawrence Xu‑Nan
- Date of Incident
- July 30, 2026
- Country
- New Zealand
- Diplomatic Response
- Chinese Ambassador Wang Xiaolong posted on X