Counter-terrorism deal signed with Fiji

New Zealand and Fiji today signed a memorandum of understanding on counter-terrorism, Foreign Minister Phil Goff said.

The agreement would enhance the two country's ability to share information on the movement and activities of terrorists, and assist in the development of better processes for combating trans-national crime.

The memorandum included measures to co-operate in law enforcement, border control and fight illegal arms trafficking.

It was the first government-to-government counter-terrorism agreement New Zealand had signed, Mr Goff said.

"It is pleasing and appropriate that it should be with a Pacific nation, especially Fiji, because we share the common goal of a safe and secure Pacific," he said in a statement.

"The memorandum signed today is an important and concrete step against terrorism that New Zealand and Fiji are taking."

The Government was keen to conclude similar arrangements with other Pacific neighbours in the near future, Mr Goff said.

- NZPA