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New Zealand's remaining defence forces in Bosnia-Herzegovina, part of the former Yugoslavia, are to be withdrawn, ending a 15-year commitment.
At the peak of New Zealand's deployment in the strife-torn region, a 250-strong infantry company was stationed there.
Defence Minister Phil Goff said yesterday the current unit, an eight-person liaison and observation team and three staff officers would be home by July.
Mr Goff said the decision to withdraw had been made in consultation with British forces to whom the New Zealand deployment was attached.
Britain had earlier announced that the bulk of its forces would be pulled out by the end of April.
"It makes sense for us to withdraw ... in conjunction with the British wind-down."
Mr Goff added the focus of peace-support operations had shifted to political and civil institution building and the need for a military presence was less.
"New Zealand can be proud of the role it's played in helping bring peace to the region," said Mr Goff.
- NZPA
