DEFENCE
PG: The Five Eyes relationship has been much in the news recently, yet it is a relationship that has survived even through testing periods such as during the introduction of New Zealand’s nuclear-free legislation. How would you characterise the importance of the relationship at the present time? Minister Henare: With my Defence Minister’s hat firmly on, the information-sharing aspect of the relationship is of crucial importance. Whilst we are all in broad agreement about the important role of information sharing, New Zealand will as ever uphold its right to maintain an independent viewpoint.
Minister Henare: New Zealand continues to support a number of peacekeeping missions around the world, for example in Africa and the Middle East. As the world opens up after Covid we can look at how we might expand our presence in U.N. peacekeeping operations. We have been continuing to participate in a limited number of exercises – in line with COVID-19 restrictions. Of course, with the TransTasman travel bubble in place there will be greater opportunities to resume our range of exercises with the Australian Defence Force, before we explore how we might expand what else we can do together. I’ve also made it quite clear that we will look for opportunities provided by the maiden voyage of HMS Queen
20
Elizabeth and its carrier strike group to deploy and train with them as they travel through South East Asia. PG: How important is it that we develop and maintain capability that is interoperable with our partners and our ally Australia? What are the costs and benefits of doing so? Minister Henare: With the Anzac Frigate Systems Upgrade nearing completion – Te Kaha is home and Te Mana will soon return – despite a difference in systems with the Australian Anzacs, we now have a capability brought up-to-date. The Prime Minister is going to Australia soon and we should explore complementary defence industry opportunities.
PG: Whilst it is appreciated that a new Defence Assessment is underway, how reflective is the 2018 Strategic Defence Policy Statement with regards to current thinking in relation to China? Minister Henare: You will have seen what the Prime Minister has said recently. The Prime Minister’s words in recent weeks have been clear with regards to what we think. PG: Minister, after you were offered the portfolio you said that you wanted to bring a Labour focus to defence. You’ve given some indication with your answers so far of what that might be, but is there anything you wish to add? Minister Henare: It’s been twelve years since Labour held the Defence portfolio. I made it quite clear that we would lean into this portfolio, not just to suit the post-COVID world but also to address this Government’s strategic outlook. I don’t take my responsibilities as Minister lightly. In this portfolio we should be passionate about our people – they are the greatest asset of the New Zealand Defence Force and we should be looking at all opportunities for them to grow their skills. We are committed to improving our infrastructure and we have a real opportunity to develop it. You can expect an announcement around infrastructure projects in the near future.
Line of Defence
