New Zealand defense chief in Iraq to discuss training mission

New Zealand's most senior military officer said Tuesday he has held talks with his Iraqi counterparts in Baghdad about New Zealand's role in helping them fight Islamic State insurgents.

Chief of Defense Force, Lieutenant General Tim Keating, said he visited Baghdad Monday to meet his commanders of the Iraqi Security Forces and coalition military leaders.

The main reason for the day-long visit was to meet General Babakir Zebari, Chief of Staff of the Iraqi Army, Keating said in a statement.

"General Zebari and I discussed the Iraqi army's training schedule and specifically the role of New Zealand Defense Force personnel who will soon be training Iraqi Security Forces at the Taji military complex near Baghdad," he said.

Keating emphasized the experience that the New Zealand personnel would bring, and the partnership approach they would take in working with the Iraqi Security Forces.

New Zealand was also keen to support the training of Iraqi trainers.

"General Zebari thanked New Zealand for providing valuable training assistance for his forces," said Keating.

"Engagement with the Iraqi army leadership is important to ensure New Zealand personnel deployed to Taji can make the best possible contribution to the development of the Iraqi Security Forces."

In Baghdad, Keating also met New Zealand personnel based at the coalition headquarters, as well as senior coalition commanders.

The main body of up to 143 New Zealand troops left earlier this month for a joint mission with Australian troops to train the Iraqi army. Endi