Budget 2005: Money for trade deal talks

The Government has allocated another $31.1 million over the next four years to conclude free trade agreements, saying resources were stretched.

Trade Negotiations Minister Jim Sutton said New Zealand had concluded trade deals with Thailand and hoped to shortly complete the P3 closer economic partnership with Chile and Singapore.

"We're heavily stretched with the current series of trade agreement negotiations with China, Asean and Malaysia."

As well, New Zealand was heavily engaged in World Trade Organisation (WTO) negotiations which remained its top trade priority, Mr Sutton said.

The new money would be allocated across government departments and agencies involved in trade agreement negotiations, he said.

It would also be used to support trade missions and put in place monitoring and compliance requirements.

Funding would also go to foster co-operation between countries -- such as resolving problems like sanitary/phytosanitary issues, non-tariff barriers and regulatory issues.

Money would pay for additional staffing for government departments and other costs needed to complete trade negotiations currently under way.

Foreign Minister Phil Goff said $2.6m was being allocated for "Asia-related projects" that would further New Zealand's relations with Asia.

The appointment of prime minister's fellows; holding workshops, conferences and symposia offshore; media exchanges and supporting academic visits were tools the enhance understanding of Asia and raise New Zealand's profile in Asia.

Mr Goff also announced $19.2m in the Budget to improve security at New Zealand's overseas embassies and posts.

The money included a one-off capital injection of $10m for work already undertaken and $9.16m over four years to maintain the improvements.

The money was being spent on perimeter fencing, anti-shatter glazing, security cameras, metal detectors, alarms, x-ray machines, access control systems, improved lighting and a few guard houses.

Disarmament Minister Marian Hobbs said $3m over four years was going to a global partnership against the spread of weapons and materials of mass destruction.

The Government also announced spending on overseas aid would increase 21 per cent to an estimated $383m in 2005/06 -- which represents 0.27 per cent of gross national income (GNI).

- NZPA