13 March 2007
The Defence Minister Phil Goff yesterday confirmed that New Zealand’s contribution to reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan will be expanded and extended until September 2008.
The government’s announcement has been welcomed by the New Zealand Defence Force’s Commander of Joint Forces New Zealand, Rear Admiral Jack Steer.
“The New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team (NZPRT) has been in Afghanistan for over three years. Based in the Bamyan province, the NZPRT has developed an excellent rapport with the locals and made a significant contribution to reconstruction efforts in the region. “
“The announcement of a further deployment of a frigate to support Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIO) in the Arabian Gulf further highlights the ability of the NZDF to make a meaningful contribution in a number of contingencies.”.
At the request of the Canadian government, the NZDF will also supply two medical specialists to a Multinational Medical Unit at Khandahar Airfield in Southern Afghanistan.
The NZDF currently has 105 personnel serving with the NZPRT in Bamyan.
ENDS
For more information please contact Captain Rachel Riley, Defence Public Relations on 021 806 926.
Pictured above right - Sergeant Graeme Johnson performs the wero during a traditional Maori welcome for the ninth rotation of New Zealand personnel to Bamyan province in Afghanistan.