NZ’s crack troops deployed to PNG for Apec meeting
New Zealand is deploying a naval ship, air force Orion and up to 30 special operations soldiers to Papua New Guinea to help with security as world leaders prepare to descend on the Pacific hot spot.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Defence Minister Ron Mark announced the deployment after a request from the PNG Government. It included the Offshore Patrol Vessel HMNZS Otago with about 75 crew to assist with maritime security, a P-3 Orion detachment with 20 personnel to provide aerial surveillance, and up to 30 Special Operation Forces personnel to provide support to Papua New Guinea security forces on the ground in Port Moresby. Australia has already deployed about 1500 defence personnel, two patrol boats and air force jets for the event.
Peters said New Zealand was also providing assistance for diplomatic training and other areas requested by PNG, like ambulance operations.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will be among the world leaders attending the gathering at Port Moresby, where security and logistics have been a major headache. Papua New Guinea is rife with violent crime including armed robbery, carjacking and sexual assault.
The New Zealand government has also given the country $10 million to host the event but there has been anger over PNG purchased 40 new Maseratis and hundreds of other luxury vehicles to transport leaders at the summit, which runs from 12 to 18 November.