Closer defence relations between New Zealand and Vietnam

Developing closer defence relations between New Zealand and Viet Nam is the aim of Mutual Assistance Programme (MAP) talks in Wellington.

“The MAP talks, which run between 14 – 16 September 2009, offer the opportunity for the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) to assist the Vietnam People’s Army with capacity building and professional training,” said MAP Co-ordinator Lieutenant Commander Graeme Briggs.

While in New Zealand the Vietnamese delegation visited Trentham Army Camp and were shown the Defence Language Centre and Command and Staff College.

The NZDF provides a wide range of opportunities for MAP partner countries with courses provided from Navy, Army and Air Force.  Vietnam is keen to participate in New Zealand-based training focussing on maritime skills, aeronautical engineering and senior officer development.

The delegation also visited the New Zealand Army’s Waiouru camp where they received a traditional Maori welcome and were shown around the Army Marae. On Wednesday they will visit Army training units at Waiouru including the Officer Cadet School.

“Vietnam is an important emerging economy in Southeast Asia and while our relationship is quite young it has developed quickly. We are keen to work with Vietnam in a mutually beneficial way, building both countries’ skills and capacity for the future,” said Lieutenant Commander Briggs.

Photo caption: East meets West - Senior Colonel Du Xuan Binh from the Vietnam People's Army hongis Warrant Officer Class One Dirk Millar at the Army marae, Waiouru.

Source: New Zealand Defence Force media release, issued 16 September 2009.