Port Vila, Vanuatu | October 2026
The Governments of Vanuatu and Australia have taken an important step forward in the implementation of the Nakamal Agreement, following the inaugural Nakamal Committee Meeting held at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on 15 October 2026.
The Vanuatu delegation was led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Hon. Johnny Koanapo Rasou, accompanied by Minister of Youth, Justice and Community Services, Hon. Job Sam Andy. The delegation was welcomed by Australia's Foreign Minister, Senator Hon. Penny Wong, and Minister for Pacific Affairs, Hon. Pat Conroy MP.
The meeting marked the first formal gathering of the Nakamal Committee and focused on translating the commitments of the Nakamal Agreement into practical outcomes that will benefit the people of Vanuatu and strengthen cooperation between the two nations.
Deputy Prime Minister Koanapo described the meeting as a significant milestone in advancing the shared vision of the agreement.
"The Nakamal Agreement is about more than strengthening ties between our two countries. It is about delivering tangible benefits for our communities," he said.
Discussions identified several priority areas for collaboration, including budget support, enhanced policing cooperation, climate action initiatives, and assistance for communities impacted by El Niño conditions and volcanic ash events.
On infrastructure and economic development, the Vanuatu delegation engaged with the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) on key maritime and aviation infrastructure priorities, including ongoing rebuilding efforts in Port Vila, Santo and Tanna. Australia also reaffirmed its commitment to deliver two renewable energy and clean water projects that will benefit remote schools and communities across Vanuatu.
Security cooperation was another key focus of the discussions. Both countries reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining a peaceful, stable and secure Pacific region through Pacific-led approaches to regional security. Vanuatu also confirmed Australia as its longstanding primary policing partner.
The meeting further highlighted the importance of cultural cooperation under the Nakamal Agreement. Together with Australian South Sea Islander representatives and Australia's Ambassador for First Nations People, both governments reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening connections between First Nations peoples, Australian South Sea Islanders and ni-Vanuatu communities.
Participants recognized the importance of acknowledging the shared history between these communities, including the legacy of the Blackbirding era, and agreed to continue fostering dialogue, mutual understanding and cultural exchange. This commitment remains at the heart of the Nakamal Agreement and reflects a shared vision of preserving cultural identity and strengthening relationships between future generations.
The Nakamal Committee will oversee and guide the implementation of the agreement through a partnership founded on mutual respect, trust and understanding. The Committee's work will support stronger people-to-people connections, enhanced development cooperation and deeper bilateral engagement in the years ahead.
The implementation of the Nakamal Agreement will also contribute to preparations for Vanuatu's Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2030, marking 50 years of independence and providing an opportunity to celebrate the nation's history, achievements and enduring partnerships across the Pacific region.
