New Zealand Security Intelligence Service

NZSIS Media Response

Raising awareness about Weapons of Mass Destruction
- 17 November 2009

The proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) poses a significant threat to regional and global security, particularly in the context of international terrorism.

"The New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) is seeking to raise awareness of this important issue," Director of Security Dr Warren Tucker said today.

"It would be naïve to think that New Zealand is exempt from attempts to acquire items, materials, expertise and knowledge that could be used in manufacturing weapons of mass destruction or their delivery," Dr Tucker said.

"The NZ Government is committed to international efforts to prevent WMD proliferation. To play our part, NZSIS must engage with relevant parts of the community – including the academic, scientific and commercial sectors.  Like any other organisation, we need tools to support our work. The pamphlet is a tool designed to support our briefings on proliferation issues and the related threats to New Zealand’s international wellbeing and national security," Dr Tucker said.

Dr Tucker pointed out that the NZSIS has been flagging this issue for some time (see website www.nzsis.govt.nz – Media Statement of 12 August 2009).  He said that it is an important aspect of the work of the NZSIS.

"We absolutely respect the vital work within New Zealand’s academic institutions but we must play our part in raising awareness in support of our Government’s commitment to this international effort."