Date:27/06/2003 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2003/06/27/stories/2003062703301400.htm

International - Globescan

Intervention force for Solomons

WELLINGTON (New Zealand): New Zealand is willing to join a multinational force to intervene in the Solomon Islands to quell rising lawlessness and prevent the South Pacific nation from becoming a haven for terrorists and people smugglers, the Foreign Minister said on Thursday. Australia announced on Wednesday it was ready to send troops and police to the Solomons if New Zealand and other Pacific nations joined the peacekeeping force, following a request for help from the Solomons Prime Minister, Alan Kemakeza. The New Zealand Foreign Minister, Phil Goff, said armed gangs and criminals aided by corrupt policemen were undermining the Government of Solomon Islands, which is close to bankruptcy following years of armed conflict (the picture shows displaced Solomon Islanders sitting in tents set up outside the capital Honiara recently). — AP