Vanuatu’s Foreign Minister Jotham Napat has spruiked Australia’s support for the Pacific nation, including how it is a “close security partner” amid a bipartisan visit to Port Vila.
Mr Napat on Monday met with his Australian counterpart Penny Wong, alongside Minister for International Development and the Pacific Pat Conroy.
Australia’s shadow foreign minister Simon Birmingham and shadow minister for international development and the Pacific Michael McCormack were also in attendance.
Mr Napat acknowledged “Australia’s role as Vanuatu’s primary humanitarian partner” at a press conference with all five politicians present, pointing to financial support offered following Tropical Cyclone Harold and the assistance provided during the pandemic.
“This is in addition to being a close security partner of Vanuatu and the region,” he said.
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Mr Napat spoke of Australia’s investments in the Mala Base Wharf and police boat RVS Mataweli, as well as upgrades to the Cook and Tiroas barracks to benefit Vanuatu’s Police Force.
“That’s a classic example in terms of providing the national security assistance,” he said.
The Australian contingent will take part in an official handover ceremony for the wharf and police boat while in Vanuatu.
Ms Wong was asked what the significance of the new wharf opening is to the security partnership between Australia and Vanuatu.
“It’s an example of cooperation around Vanuatu’s priorities. I think it’s very important for us to make sure that’s how we conceptualise the engagement and the partnership,” she said.
“We have an interest in a Pacific which is stronger economically in which sovereign choices can be made in which health and prosperity can be improved.
“Australia has an ethical interest in that and we have a regional interest in that as a member of the Pacific family.
“The Foreign Minister was very generous and thanked us for support but I made the point to him, this is a partnership and we benefit as well because we benefit from a stronger region.”
Security in the Pacific has been in sharp focus in recent months amid concerns over China’s growing influence in the region.
A security agreement signed between China and the Solomon Islands earlier this year sparked fears Beijing would establish a military presence on Australia’s doorstop.
Mr Napat told reporters Vanuatu has not had any discussions with China about security matters.
“We have not established any security agreement, we have not even discussed any matter in relation to security,” he said.
Source: Sky News
