Rubio, Winston Peters discuss Iran, critical minerals

State Dept Press Releases

Published April 7th, 2026

Detected April 7th, 2026

Summary

Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters on April 7, 2026. The officials discussed bilateral relations, the ongoing conflict in Iran, cooperation on critical minerals supply chains, and advancing prosperity and security in the Pacific Islands region. Both reaffirmed their commitment to the enduring friendship between the United States and New Zealand.

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What changed

The State Department released a meeting readout documenting diplomatic discussions between Secretary Rubio and New Zealand Foreign Minister Peters. Key topics included bilateral relations, the Iran conflict, critical minerals supply chain cooperation, and Pacific Islands security. No new policy announcements or regulatory actions were issued.

This readout is informational in nature and does not create compliance obligations for private entities. Businesses involved in critical minerals, particularly those with supply chain interests in New Zealand or the Pacific region, should monitor for follow-up announcements regarding any mineral cooperation frameworks. The discussions on Iran may signal continued U.S. diplomatic engagement in the Middle East.

What to do next

Monitor for updates on U.S.-New Zealand diplomatic relations

Source document (simplified)

Home Office of the Spokesperson Press Releases Secretary Rubio’s Meeting with New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters

Secretary Rubio’s Meeting with New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters

Readout

Office of the Spokesperson

April 7, 2026

The below is attributable to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott:

Secretary of State Marco Rubio met today with New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters. They discussed the bilateral relationship, the ongoing conflict in Iran, cooperation on critical minerals supply chains, and advancing prosperity and security in the Pacific Islands region. Secretary Rubio and Foreign Minister Peters applauded the enduring friendship between New Zealand and the United States and reaffirmed their commitment to advancing shared interests and strategic priorities.