New Zealand weighs joining Australia-Fiji defence pact

New Zealand is considering joining a defence alliance signed by Australia and Fiji, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Thursday.

The Ocean of Peace Alliance made Fiji one of Australia's few treaty allies and includes a commitment to mutual defence. Australia and Fiji have said other Pacific countries with militaries can join.

Luxon said New Zealand welcomed the Australia-Fiji commitment and already worked with both countries on regional security. “Engaging with them on this alliance is logical,” he said.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters said Pacific leaders had long sought a Pacific-led response to security issues. Defence Minister Chris Penk said joining talks would be an “opportunity to grow Pacific unity”.

The pact was signed Monday, hours before China tested a long-range nuclear-capable missile that landed in the Pacific Ocean. Peters described the test as “deeply concerning” and said Pacific nations did not want the region to become a theatre for outside military competition.