China called on "relevant people in New Zealand" not to make China an issue for domestic political purposes, and do more things that are conducive to bilateral friendship.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning made the remarks on Thursday following the negative remarks by New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters against a Chinese-born opposition lawmaker at a parliamentary debate.

A relevant official in charge of the Chinese Embassy in New Zealand lodged solemn representations with the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade over the issue.

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China always believes that it is important to respect the development paths and systems chosen by the people of every country, and opposes any form of discrimination and prejudice, Mao said.