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Australia and Vanuatu to sign revised Nakamal Agreement in Canberra
Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese plan to sign the updated Nakamal Agreement later today. The pact follows nearly ten months of talks after an earlier signing was postponed.
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The agreement replaces an earlier version approved last year at Mount Yasur. That version included clauses limiting third-party involvement in Vanuatu's ports, airports, and telecommunications.
Background to the revised pact Vanuatu's cabinet approved the compromise text last month. A leaked draft states that Vanuatu will consult Australia on proposed third-party engagement in critical infrastructure and keep such infrastructure free from militarisation.
The draft recognises Australia as Vanuatu's longstanding primary policing partner and says Vanuatu will prioritise Pacific Island Forum members when making policing requests.
Regional context and next steps The updated agreement is expected to reaffirm Vanuatu's existing laws that bar militarisation of critical infrastructure. It does not grant Australia veto power over foreign investments. Mr Albanese issued a statement on Saturday noting Mr Napat's visit but did not mention the agreement.
Mr Napat is also expected to discuss easier travel arrangements for Vanuatu citizens.
