WASHINGTON, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- The U.S. Homeland Security officials say the United States and New Zealand have reached an agreement intended to improve both countries' security.
The federal department said in a release the agreement signed Friday involves the United States and New Zealand sharing science and technology research with a focus on protecting both countries from threats such as terrorist attacks.
"International collaboration in science and technology is a major part of our ongoing efforts to counter threats of terrorism," Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said. "This agreement will enhance our ability to collaborate on research and share innovative technologies to ensure our mutual security and protect the public."
New Zealand Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully also applauded the Agreement on Science and Technology Cooperation Contributing to Domestic and External Security Capabilities. New Zealand transport security and civil defense emergency management researchers will benefit by collaborating with their U.S. counterparts, McCully said.
