Monday, November 20, 2006.
With the Tongan International Airport now open for business, discussions commenced with the Tongan Defence Services on additional support requirements that maybe required said Lieutenant Colonel Darren Beck, Commander of the Combined Joint Task Force.
Lieutenant Colonel Beck met with Tongan Chief of Defence Force, Brigadier Tau’aika Uta’atu and other members of the Tongan Defence Services today.
“Our primary concern is the restoration of security in Nuku’alofa to enable the repair and reconciliation process to commence.
“However any further tasking by the Combined Joint Task Force must be agreed upon by all governments concerned” said Lieutenant Colonel Beck.
Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Rear Admiral Jack Steer is very pleased with the progress to date. “The New Zealand-led force has achieved its first major goal of providing security to the Tongan international airport to enable it to safely open again.
“The New Zealand and Australian forces came together in a well orchestrated plan and were able to provide immediate support to Airport security personnel and the Tongan Defence Services,” said Rear Admiral Steer.
The Combined Joint Task Force will remain in Tonga at the request of the Tongan Government for the interim. The focus is now on undertaking consultation, planning and preparation for future tasks that may arise.
ENDS
Currently 350 New Zealand Defence Force personnel are deployed on peacekeeping operations and UN missions, in 19 missions across 15 countries.
For further information please contact Major Charmaine Pene, Defence Public Relations, on 04 529 6032 or 021 806 926.
FAQs
What is the NZDF's role?
The NZDF is leading a Combined New Zealand and Australian Joint Task force in providing security to Tongan International Airport and restoring stability to the region. The force has a security focus. The deployment to Tonga is the third New Zealand/ Australia Combined operation in the Asia-Pacific region this year. This currently includes missions to Timor-Leste and the Solomon Islands. Previous combined missions have also seen New Zealand and Australian troops work together in Bougainville
Who is the leading the force?
Senior National Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Darren Beck is leading the Combined Joint Task Force of approximately 150 New Zealand and Australian military and police.
What is the NZDF approach?
The NZDF contingent is a part of a whole of Government approach to the situation in Tonga and includes both military and non-military personnel. The New Zealand and Australian governments have both expressed their desire to assist Tonga in restoring normality to the country.
The New Zealand Led Combined Joint Task Force is in Tonga at the request of the Tongan Government who has sought assistance from both New Zealand and Australia.
What does the ADF task involve?
Australia has deployed around 50 ADF personnel and 35 AFP to assist the Government of Tonga in establishing an environment in which a peaceful resolution to the current unrest can be achieved. This will be done as a part of the NZ led force.
What's happening now?
The Combined Joint Task Force is expected to work along side the Tongan Defence Services as well as liaising closely with respective High Commissions to coordinate a response. The force is currently undertaking planning, coordination and preparation for any future security related tasks that are requested by the Tongan authorities.
How long are we expected to be there?
The NZDF contingent is expected to be in Tonga for short duration, however no timeframe has been given for return to New Zealand. This decision remains one for the Tongan, Australian and New Zealand Governments.
Are the troops armed?
The NZDF contingent will carry arms; they will have the power to protect themselves if required under appropriate rules of engagement.