26 Sep 2010

NZ builds up military relations with China

10:54 am on 26 September 2010

Chinese troops are planning to come to New Zealand to observe pre-deployment training, as the Defence Force builds up military relations with China.

Earlier this month, two warships from the People's Liberation Army visited Auckland - the first naval visit for three years - and one of China's top generals has invited New Zealand troops to attend the Beijing Peacekeeping school.

Defence Minister Wayne Mapp says the two countries want to develop peacekeeping partnerships.

Dr Mapp says the two countries could also work together on disaster relief, and search and rescue missions.