New Zealand has announced it will begin discussions with Australia and Fiji on the possibility of joining the newly established Ocean of Peace Alliance.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon welcomed this week’s announcement by Fiji and Australia to form a military alliance, describing it as a positive step for regional security.
“New Zealand and Australia share a close bond, with a military alliance that continues to go from strength to strength, and we also have a strong and enduring relationship with Fiji,” Luxon said.
He noted that New Zealand already works closely with both countries to promote a safer Pacific and said it was logical to explore participation in the new alliance.
The Ocean of Peace Alliance is a mutual defence treaty that commits members to cooperate, consult and respond collectively to shared security threats. The agreement also allows other Pacific nations to join with the consent of Fiji and Australia.
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters said Pacific leaders have long championed Pacific-led solutions to regional security challenges, and the alliance reinforces that approach.
“Elevating our long-standing relationship with Australia and Fiji – and other Pacific nations – to the next level through an alliance would mean we become even closer partners,” Peters said.
Defence Minister Chris Penk said the opportunity to deepen defence cooperation comes as New Zealand and Australia mark 75 years of their alliance.
“New Zealand values the opportunity to grow Pacific unity and build stronger defence and security partnerships within our region. We are committed to the implementation of deeper defence and security cooperation with Fiji,” Penk said.
The New Zealand Government said it will now engage with Australia and Fiji to explore potential membership of the Ocean of Peace Alliance. Any decision to join will require Cabinet approval before proceeding through New Zealand’s parliamentary treaty process.
