Prime Minister Stephen Harper today welcomed closer cooperation with New Zealand on nuclear non-proliferation, ongoing scientific polar research and people-to-people exchanges, following meetings with New Zealand Prime Minister John Key in Ottawa today.

“Today’s visit is an opportunity to renew the historic ties between Canada and New Zealand.  These ties are strong and growing,” said Prime Minister Harper.  “New Zealand has always been a steadfast friend to Canada and we are honoured to host the first Prime Ministerial visit in eleven years.”

Prime Minister Harper welcomed the announcement that New Zealand will support a Canadian-led project to upgrade the physical security of nuclear materials at six Russian facilities.  New Zealand’s contribution will help to provide the physical protection of equipment at a major Russian facility and help to better prevent the illicit trafficking of nuclear materials.

“Canada is proud to be working alongside New Zealand and other like-minded countries to reduce the threat of nuclear weapons falling into terrorist hands”, added Prime Minister Harper.  “In keeping with our G-8 commitments, we continue to roll out initiatives that will limit the spread of weapons and materials of mass destruction.”

During their discussions, the Prime Ministers also agreed to build on scientific research in the Arctic and Antarctic regions and to establish fellowships to facilitate bilateral exchanges of politicians, business leaders and academics.

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