New Zealand is looking to enhance its security partnerships with Pacific nations.
Defence minister Ron Mark says the 'Advancing Pacific Partnerships 2019' assessment outlined how New Zealand would be a trusted and reliable partner for the Pacific.
The Assessment outlines how Defence will partner with our Pacific Island neighbours and invest in Pacific regional security architecture.
“This is our commitment to partnering with the Pacific and recognises our powerful links to the region,” says Mr Mark.
“Core to our concept of partnership is the assurance that New Zealand’s Defence engagement will be sustainable and focused on Pacific priorities. We will be a reliable, trusted and long-term partner to all our friends in the Pacific.
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“We are investing in people-to-people initiatives, we are focused on security issues that matter to the Pacific, and we are enhancing our capabilities to contribute to Pacific security."
The assessment says climate change, transnational crime and geopolitical competition means New Zealand has to act in new ways and at new levels.
It also says the military would need to collaborate more, be prepared to deploy more, and be present in an increasingly competitive region.
