WELLINGTON - New Zealand has elevated its relationship with Vietnam to a comprehensive strategic partnership, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said on Thursday.

Luxon announced the major upgrade while meeting with his Vietnamese counterpart Pham Minh Chinh during Luxon's visit to Vietnam as the two countries marked 50 years of diplomatic relations, according to a New Zealand government statement.

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Both leaders discussed opportunities to further deepen the relationship between New Zealand and Vietnam across economics, trade and investment, defense and security, education, and people-to-people connections under the new partnership, the statement said.

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New Zealand and Vietnam agreed on a strategic partnership in 2020. Thursday's announcement will place New Zealand at the top tier of Vietnam's international relationships, as this is Vietnam's 10th comprehensive strategic partnership.

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Luxon said strengthening the bilateral relationship with Vietnam, which is vital for New Zealand's economic future, allows more opportunities for Kiwi businesses to access the Vietnam market.

The agreement also showed the priority the New Zealand government is placing on relationships with Southeast Asia to grow economy, create jobs and lift incomes, he said.