Vanuatu and Fiji Strengthen Ties with Comprehensive Bilateral Agreement
Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat and Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka signed a broad Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on bilateral cooperation yesterday in Honiara, Solomon Islands. The signing took place during the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, underscoring the commitment of both nations to deeper collaboration.
The MOU establishes a framework for partnership across multiple key sectors, including:
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Security and climate change
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Education, health, and sports
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Trade, commerce, and labor
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Fisheries, agriculture, and energy
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ICT, immigration, and humanitarian assistance
Prime Minister Napat welcomed the agreement, highlighting the shared history and mutual respect that continue to form the foundation of Fijian–Vanuatu relations. He commended Prime Minister Rabuka’s vision of a “Pacific as an ocean of peace” and thanked Fiji for its ongoing support, including a previous MOU on education and culture. Napat also acknowledged Fiji’s interest in supporting training for Vanuatu’s United Nations peacekeeping contingent.
Prime Minister Rabuka described the agreement as a significant step toward acknowledging the interconnected futures of both nations. He emphasized that cooperation would bring greater benefits for their peoples and the wider Pacific region.
Both governments also expressed their intention to soon finalize their maritime boundary agreement, further strengthening diplomatic and regional ties.
