INDEPENDENT NEWS

Defence Minister holds talks with UK Minister

Published: Fri 23 Nov 2012 01:53 PM
Hon Dr Jonathan Coleman
Minister of Defence
23 November 2012 Media Statement
Defence Minister holds talks with UK Minister for the Armed Forces
Defence Minister Dr Jonathan Coleman is holding talks today with the visiting United Kingdom Minister of State for the Armed Forces.
Dr Coleman and the Rt Hon Andrew Robathan are holding a bilateral meeting in Auckland. Mr Robathan has been formally welcomed with a powhiri at the Devonport Navy Base.
"This is a useful opportunity to maintain the very good working relationship with the British Armed Forces," said Dr Coleman.
The British Armed Forces are a key partner for the NZ Defence Force, in terms of training, doctrine, interoperability, and capability development. We are natural partners in a number of areas, and our forces work together very well.
"The visit is also a welcome signal of the importance the UK places on the bilateral defence relationship forged from a shared history."
"We are discussing areas of common security interest such as the international draw down in Afghanistan, as well as issues common with many Defence Forces - how to deal with tightening budgets," said Dr Coleman.
Dr Coleman says the meeting will also confirm a proposed BRITANZ conference in New Zealand next year. This is a conference of defence chiefs from Britain, Australia, and NZ.
________________________________________

Next in New Zealand politics

Concerns Conveyed To China Over Cyber Activity
By: New Zealand Government
Parliamentary Network Breached By The PRC
By: New Zealand Government
GDP Decline Reinforces Government’s Fiscal Plan
By: New Zealand Government
Tax Cuts Now Even More Irresponsible
By: New Zealand Labour Party
New Zealand Provides Further Humanitarian Support To Gaza And The West Bank
By: New Zealand Government
High Court Judge Appointed
By: New Zealand Government
View as: DESKTOP | MOBILE © Scoop Media