New Zealand said Thursday (2/1) it would consider sharing advanced military technology with the United States and Britain, while the country is also seeking closer defense ties with Australia amid concerns over an increasingly aggressive China.
Australia and New Zealand's defense and foreign ministers met in Melbourne to discuss improving security ties between the neighboring countries. This was their first joint meeting since New Zealand's right-wing coalition government took office last year.
Australia announced it would send officials to New Zealand this year to discuss a three-way defense partnership between Australia, Britain and the United States.
China, the United States and other countries are jockeying for influence in the strategically important Pacific region.
The US and UK have agreed to provide Australia with a fleet of submarines powered by US nuclear technology.
New Zealand has banned nuclear-powered ships from using its ports since 1984. However, New Zealand is considering whether to engage in a commitment between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States to develop and share advanced military capabilities, including artificial intelligence, electromagnetic weapons and technology. hypersonic.
Meanwhile, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed concern over allegations that several employees of the UN's main aid agency in the war-torn Gaza Strip took part in a deadly Hamas attack on Israel four months ago.
But he hinted at a possible resumption of the agency's funding from Australia if there was “no other alternative”.
At least 10 countries, including Australia, have suspended funding for the United Nations Agency for Palestine Refugees, known as UNRWA, over the allegations. (ab/uh)