NZ Customs Enters Cooperative Framework With Japan

1 April 2004 Media Statement
For Immediate Release

New Zealand Customs Enters Cooperative Framework With Japan

Building on outcomes from last year's Joint Economic Consultation Talks with Japan, the New Zealand Customs Service entered a Cooperative Framework arrangement with the Customs Administration of Japan at a signing in Auckland today at the conclusion of the 10th World Customs Organisation Asia Pacific Heads of Customs Conference.

Acting Chief Executive, John Secker, said we have a highly valuable relationship with Japanese Customs.

"The Customs Cooperative Framework highlights the importance of working relationships and allows us to formally build on existing linkages between regulatory and technical agencies. We welcome this opportunity to develop a stronger relationship between our two agencies."

"We also look forward to sharing technical information and developing training opportunities provided for in the arrangement. It guides us as to how we will exchange information in the spirit of cooperation, but always mindful of the laws of our countries."

The Director General of Japan's Customs Administration, Mr Yukitoshi Kimura, said, " We are pleased to be in New Zealand and have the opportunity to sign the Cooperative Framework. We see this as the beginning of a fruitful relationship that will not only strengthen the friendship between Japan and New Zealand, but will also provide a strong bond of cooperation which will be of benefit to the greater Asia Pacific region."

The Japanese and New Zealand Customs Services have traditionally enjoyed a good working relationship. Both are parties to the 1953 Customs Cooperative Council Declaration on Mutual Administrative Assistance, which provides the foundation for Customs cooperation.

New Zealand and Japan have also worked cooperatively in other multi-lateral settings such as the World Customs Organisation (WCO) and APEC. In the last two years with New Zealand as WCO Asia Pacific Vice Chair and Japan as the WCO Regional Training Coordinator, developments in regional capacity building have been further enhanced.

ENDS

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