There's increased efforts to position New Zealand on the world stage and make connections with the US.

Prime Minister Chris Luxon is jetting off to the NATO summit and meeting with officials in Washington next week.

He says he looks forward to forging stronger links with businesses and investors to help rebuild our economy.

Former US Ambassador Tim Groser says the timing couldn't be more tense or important.

"The key issue is what he's going to be able to perceive amongst the other leaders of NATO, given the confluence of the huge strategic threat from the Ukrainian situation and the resurgence of Donald Trump's chances of winning the presidency."

LISTEN ABOVE