New Zealand and the United States have signed an agreement to work together to combat people trafficking in the Pacific.
The US Secretary of State of Homeland Security, Janet Napolitano, says the agreement will enhance cooperation between the two countries.
She says trafficking in persons is not just a problem in the Pacific, but thoughout the world, and there is a common commitment to end what she calls modern-day slavery.
"By enhancing collaboration between our two countries, and with out many partners across the region, we will strengthen our efforts to prevent human trafficking, with a focus on disrupting and dismantling the transnational criminal organisations involved in that horrible trade."
Janet Napolitano says the agreement will also increase and coordinate efforts with partners in the Pacific.
