The Office of the Public Solicitor of Vanuatu (OPS Vanuatu) and the Office of the Public Solicitor of Papua New Guinea (OPS PNG) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in Port Vila, marking a significant step in strengthening justice services and deepening ties between the two Melanesian neighbours.

The MOU reinforces a shared commitment to improve access to justice through cooperation in legal aid development, professional training, policy collaboration, and institutional strengthening.

Acting Public Prosecutor Jane Tari noted that the partnership began with the introduction of the Wantok Legal Network program in August 2024, followed by a courtesy visit from the PNG Public Solicitor in June 2024. Momentum increased in August 2025 when OPS Vanuatu officers Senior Henzler Vira and Glenn Talae travelled to PNG to refine the MOU framework and identify mutual training opportunities.

OPS Vanuatu expressed appreciation to all who supported the process, including the PNG Public Solicitor and his team, the Vanuatu Australia Policing and Justice Program (VAPJP) for early financial backing, VAPJP’s OPS Advisor Mr. Philip Smith for ongoing guidance, and the technical teams and stakeholders from both countries.

PNG Public Solicitor Mr. Leslie Benjamine Mamu highlighted PNG’s leadership in the Wantok Legal Network, which connects PNG with Solomon Islands and Fiji, and welcomed Vanuatu’s inclusion. He noted that the MOU aligns with regional priorities under the Melanesian Spearhead Group and the Pacific Islands Forum, supporting cooperation in capacity building, staff exchanges, knowledge sharing, law reform, and institutional performance.

Through this partnership, Vanuatu will benefit from PNG’s extensive legal aid experience, while PNG will gain from Vanuatu’s strengths in customary law, community-focused services, and small-jurisdiction governance. Both countries expect the agreement to enhance the delivery of legal services for citizens who rely on free representation to protect their rights and wellbeing.

Both Public Solicitor Offices reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the partnership active, practical, and results focused. The MOU represents not just an agreement, but an ongoing collaboration that will continue to grow in the years ahead.