NZ to keep troops in Solomons until 2006

New Zealand will extend until July 2006 its military commitment to restoring order in the Solomon Islands, the Cabinet decided yesterday.

New Zealand would remain part of the multinational regional assistance mission in the Pacific nation, Prime Minister Helen Clark said.

Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Papua New Guinea have made up the mission since the force moved into the Solomons to restore order last August.

"A decision has been made to continue to place an infantry platoon in the Solomons for a further period," she said.

The military contribution running until July 31, 2006, meant New Zealand would have to supply a 33-person infantry platoon for two three-month rotations over the next two years, she said.

That is a reduction from the 120 troops and two helicopters New Zealand initially contributed.

Helen Clark said there would be a support contingent of up to three further staff for each rotation.

The commitment, which will cost about $3.2 million over three years, followed discussion among contributing countries, she said.

"The main task of the platoon will be patrols on Malaita, which has been one of the more troubled areas."

It would provide a rapid response capability, perimeter security for Rove Prison and respond to any "contingencies" on the Solomon Islands-Bougainville border.

"Our continued military presence reflects a long-term commitment to the development of a safe and prosperous Solomon Islands," she said.

New Zealand contributes $16 million of aid to the Solomons, largely for education, and has 35 police officers in the islands.

The multi-nation force has helped restore peace in the capital, Honiara, but residents fear violence is still just below the surface and want the soldiers to stay.

Australia is reducing its military commitment, from 1600 combat-ready soldiers to 100.

- NZPA