Visit to Vanuatu

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, will travel to Vanuatu this week from 18 – 19 September. 

Australia and Vanuatu share a deep and enduring partnership, founded on a shared vision of a prosperous, peaceful and resilient region.  

During his visit, the Deputy Prime Minister will meet with the Prime Minister of Vanuatu, the Hon Charlot Salwai Tabimasmas, Deputy Prime Minister the Hon Matai Seremaiah Nawulu, Minister of Internal Affairs, the Hon Andrew Napuat, Minister of Finance and Economic Management, the Hon Johnny Koanapo and Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, the Hon Marco Rick Mahe. 

He will also join Prime Minister Salwai Tabimasmas to open the newly redeveloped Cook Barracks in Port Vila. 

The barracks redevelopment is a significant infrastructure partnership project between Australia and Vanuatu. It demonstrates the strength of our security partnership and reiterates Australia’s commitment to enhancing the capability of the Vanuatu Police Force. 

Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Richard Marles MP:

“I look forward to reaffirming our shared security priorities with Vanuatu’s leaders, as we continue to deepen cooperation between our two nations.” 

“The newly redeveloped Cook Barracks symbolises Australia and Vanuatu’s strong security partnership and showcases what we can achieve when we work together. It will be an honour to attend the official opening.”

MEDIA NOTE:

Media can access imagery/vision at https://images.defence.gov.au/s20242727.