Australia and Vanuatu Forge A$500 Million Security and Economic Partnership

Australia and Vanuatu have agreed a 10-year A$500 million partnership to boost security and economic cooperation.

Announced by Australia's Deputy PM Richard Marles and Vanuatu PM Jotham Napat, the Nakamal Agreement aims to strengthen regional ties amid growing Chinese influence.

Key provisions

• Construction of data centres in Port Vila and Santo
• Funding for climate resilience measures
• Security capacity building
• Potential visa-free travel arrangements (pending subsidiary agreement)

Strategic context

The pact underscores shared security interests and reflects Australia's push to deepen engagement in the Pacific.

Previous talks in 2022 faltered, but both sides now emphasize a long-term vision.

Richard Marles said that as neighbours, they share a security environment and commitment to each other.

This topic was reported by BBC News.

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