New Zealand chasing science, education links in Japan, S.Korea

New Zealand Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce will be looking to drum up business and innovation cooperation in Japan and South Korea this week.

Joyce said Monday he would visit Tokyo before travelling on to Seoul and Busan in South Korea, with the focus of his visits being trade and investment links as well as education and science.

The South Korea-New Zealand free trade agreement entered into force late last year.

Japan and South Korea were also two of the largest origin countries for international students in New Zealand.

"There is also scope to boost science and technology relationships, with both countries recognized as being world-leaders in research and development and innovation," Joyce said in a statement.

"We want to strengthen links in sectors like robotics and functional food, and geothermal energy is a particular focus for us in Japan," said Joyce.

"Investment from both countries also makes a significant contribution to our economy especially in regional New Zealand and our exports. We need to grow those linkages further," said the minister. Endit