Much has been said about the importance of the good relationship between New Zealand and China, but this is not to deny real differences in our values and political systems. That's why we need a quality and independent debate about our differences, challenges, and any issues concerning foreign interference. The Chinese community is supporting it. But if we allow the sweeping generalisation to sink to that level, the value of the debate, if any, would be diminished, and opportunities to look at real issues would be lost. 