Hagel Meets With New Zealand's Prime Minister

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, June 20, 2014 - Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel met with New Zealand Prime Minister John Key at the Pentagon and extended his appreciation for New Zealand's important contributions in Afghanistan, according to a statement issued today by Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby.

Hagel also expressed enthusiasm for the renewed growth in U.S.-New Zealand defense engagements, Kirby added in his statement.

Kirby's full statement follows:

Secretary Hagel met with New Zealand Prime Minister John Key this morning at the Pentagon. Secretary Hagel expressed appreciation for New Zealand's important contributions in Afghanistan and expressed enthusiasm for the renewed growth in U.S.-New Zealand defense engagements.

The secretary and prime minister also discussed developments in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Asia-Pacific region, noting the need for countries to maintain a unity of purpose where their interests coincide.