18 Feb 2016

NZ wants improved military co-operation with Fiji

11:20 am on 18 February 2016

New Zealand's foreign minister, Murray McCully, who is visiting Fiji, says New Zealand wants to strengthen bi-lateral defence ties.

180714. Photo RNZ. Foreign Minister Murray McCully talking with media about the Mayalsia Airlines MH17 flight.

Foreign Minister Murray McCully Photo: RNZ

Fiji media reported he has held talks with various government ministers and he says New Zealand is keen to progress defence co-operation.

FBC News reported Mr McCully spoke of the opportunity for the countries' military forces to co-operate during disaster relief operations.

It also quoted him saying 20 personnel from the disciplined forces would travel to New Zealand in coming months, but there were no other details.

Mr McCully's visit comes just a month after the arrival in Suva of a consignment of arms gifted from Russia.