Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Minister visits troops in Afghanistan
Hon Dr Wayne Mapp
Minister of Defence
Minister of Research, Science and Technology
21
October 2009
Media Statement
Minister visits troops in
Afghanistan
Defence Minister Wayne Mapp is on his way to Bratislava, Slovakia today for a NATO Defence Ministers’ meeting, after visiting New Zealand Defence Force personnel deployed in Afghanistan.
His three-day visit included an overnight stay at the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team base in Bamiyan province.
“I am very impressed with what I saw,“ Dr Mapp said. “Our people in Afghanistan are doing an outstanding job in a very difficult environment. They clearly command the highest respect from the local people they are working with and our Coalition colleagues.
“The PRT will soon begin its transition towards an increased civilian component, in line with the Cabinet decision of 10 August. It is clear that Bamiyan is ready for the next stage of economic development.”
After the NATO Defence Ministers’ meeting on Friday morning Dr Mapp will hold a series of bilateral meetings and attend a NATO-ISAF working lunch.
“It is important to attend such meetings, to ensure New Zealand’s voice is heard,” he said.
Dr Mapp returns to New Zealand on Monday.
ENDS
Gordon Campbell: On Dissing Wellington, And Porridge Radio
RNZ: New Māori Monarch Steps Onto The National Stage
NZDF: All Three Containers Removed From Reef After HMNZS Manawanui Sinking
NZDF: Manawanui Update - Two Containers Successfully Removed From Reef, Work In Progress To Remove The Third
Criminal Bar Association: Three-Strikes Changes Move Our Justice System In The Wrong Direction
NZCTU: Unions To Hold Nationwide Day Of Action In Opposition To Govt’s Anti-Worker Agenda
Digital Identity NZ: Shaping The Future Of Open Banking In Aotearoa - DINZ Responds To Proposed Regulations
