New Zealand’s Relations with the Gulf States

This book is the first in-depth study of New Zealand’s relationship with the Gulf. Using analytic eclecticism, it explores the main drivers and constraints of bilateral ties between New Zealand and the six member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Taking 2001 as a nominal starting point and extending to the present day, the study comprehensively examines New Zealand’s 21st century relations with the Gulf states, including economic, security and diplomatic ties. The book incorporates data from nearly 50 interviews with current and former officials, businesspeople, academics, journalists and other key stakeholders in both New Zealand and the Gulf. It also draws on thousands of pages of previously unpublished material, obtained under freedom of information legislation. This volume will be of use to scholars and policymakers interested in the international relations of New Zealand, the Gulf, and small states generally.