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New Zealand First leader, Winston Peters is warning against Māori being used as a cover for Chinese investment that may not be in the country's best interests.
A Māori business delegation is currently in China with Māori Affairs Minister, Pita Sharples and Prime Minister, John Key.
Milk processor Miraka signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Shanghai Pengxin that will mean milk from the former Crafar farms will be processed by the Māori-owned company, and discussions have also been held with forestry and fishing interests among others.
Mr Peters says having control over its own resources is critical for New Zealand's future, which is why sourcing capital from China carries risks.
“It's very convenient for them to obtain Māori interest alongside them as it gives them a sense of legitimacy against any concerns because we’re working in partnership with Māori. Māori, in many cases, do not know or comprehend why they are and how they are being used,” he says.
Winston Peters says under John Key, New Zealand is taking a subservient attitude towards China.
Copyright © 2013, Uma Broadcasting Ltd
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