Jacinda Ardern met with Jens Stoltenberg for a joint news conference to discuss anti-terrorism measures following the General Secretary’s visit to Australia. During the conference, they also discussed issues such as climate change, maritime security, and cybersecurity.
General Secretary Jens Stoltenberg is meeting with a number of leaders to forge ties between NATO and the Indo-Pacific. Stoltenberg praised New Zealand’s peacekeeping efforts and participation in NATO operations, despite their distance from the US and Europe, and joint goals.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said: “These values include, of course, an abiding respect for democratic freedoms and human rights and a commitment to upholding the rules-based international order.”
“NATO has contributed to the longest sustained period of peace in post-war Europe, and this highlights the importance of multilateral institutions and the success they can achieve — something New Zealand has spoken often about.”
“With a fledgling peace process underway, these roles will contribute towards safeguarding the hard-won gains Afghan women and girls have made since 2001, and to supporting women’s participation in the peace negotiations.”
New Zealand defence forces trainers are currently deployed in Afghanistan as part of NATO’s resolute support mission. Jacinda Arden also announced New Zealand service members will support NATO’s Women, Peace and Security Initiatives.
Stoltenberg noted New Zealand’s previous contribution to NATO missions including peacekeeping efforts in Bosnia and Kosovo in the 1990s. New Zealand troops are also working with NATO to train forces in Iraq.
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gender equality Indo-Asia-Pacific region International NATO NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg New Zealand peace keeping