A joint operation between local law enforcement agencies and international partners on August 7th has resulted in the seizure of a significant quantity of illicit substance on a yacht in Torba province. A suspicious vessel and its crew have been detained, and investigations are underway.

    The operation involved a collaborative effort between multiple agencies, including law enforcement and customs officials. The vessel, its crew, and cargo were thoroughly searched, leading to the discovery and seizure of the illicit substance.

    The investigation has received support from international partners, who will provide specialist technical capabilities to assist with further investigations. Investigations are continuing, with authorities working to determine the full extent of the illicit activity.

    Drug trafficking and drug trans-shipment has recently increased in the region; therefore, the public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities, highlighting the importance of community involvement in maintaining national security.

    The Government, and the Police authorities in Port Vila acknowledge the efforts of all agencies and partners involved in the operation and look forward to their continued collaboration in combating transnational organized crime.

    Port Vila, Vanuatu – 22nd August 2025- The Government of Vanuatu is launching its National Anti-Money Laundering/Counter Financing of Terrorism/Combating the Financing of Proliferation (AML/CTF/CPF) Strategy, National Risk Assessment (NRA), and the Mutual Evaluation Technical Team (METT).

    This marks a significant milestone in Vanuatu's commitment to protecting its financial system, promoting transparency, and ensuring sustainable economic growth.

    The National Risk Assessment has identified key threats to Vanuatu's financial system, including corruption, transnational money laundering, and fraud. In response, the Government temporarily suspended the Citizenship by Investment Program earlier this year and will conduct a full review to ensure the programs align with Vanuatu’s national interests and international obligations.

    "We are committed to building a resilient, transparent financial ecosystem that supports growth and inclusion," said Prime Minister Jotham Napat. "This strategy is not just for regulators—it is for every citizen, every business, and every institution that values integrity."

    The National AML/CTF/CPF Strategy sets out ten strategic priorities, including:

    • Risk-based supervision of financial institutions and Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs)
    • Enhanced cross-agency information sharing and coordination
    • Targeted capacity building, training, and public outreach
    • Strengthened customer due diligence and ‘know-your-client’ measures
    • Improved asset tracing, seizure, and confiscation procedures

    The Mutual Evaluation Technical Team will lead preparations for the Asia-Pacific Group onsite evaluation in November 2026, ensuring that Vanuatu is well-prepared to demonstrate its commitment to transparency and compliance.

    "A successful APG mutual evaluation will affirm our reputation as a transparent, well-regulated jurisdiction, unlock new investment, strengthen tourism and trade, and ensure that Vanuatu remains a trusted partner on the world stage," said Prime Minister Napat.

    The Government of Vanuatu looks forward to working with its international partners, stakeholders, and citizens to build a secure, transparent, and globally respected financial centre.

    Port Vila, Vanuatu – 22nd August 2025- Prime Minister Jotham Napat has told the different Heads of Missions attending the 11th meeting this week in Port Vila that Vanuatu's foreign service remains united in vision, committed to its core principles, and driven by service to the nation.

    He delivered the remarks yesterday at the conclusion of the three-day Heads of Mission meeting.

    The Prime Minister emphasized that the country's foreign policy is built on the principle that Vanuatu is a friend to every nation-state, a philosophy deeply embedded in its culture and tradition.

    "Vanuatu is not a foe, but a friend to everyone, to every single nation-state. This is the DNA of Vanuatu's long-standing foreign policy, heavily embedded in our culture and fasen," said Prime Minister Jotham Napat.

    The consultations focused on implementing the Government's 2025 priorities, including post-disaster recovery, economic growth, governance reform, education, health, and climate change advocacy.

    He reaffirmed the Government’s overall commitment to supporting the Foreign Service and ensuring that limited resources are used strategically and transparently.

    Prime Minister Napat also commended Ambassador Sumbue Antas for his distinguished service in Geneva, highlighting the importance of reinvesting the vast experiences of institutions and individuals for the common good of the Foreign Service.

    "Your value as a Heads of Mission or Consul General will always be measured not by the number of meetings attended or the weight of agreements signed, but by the impact you deliver to the People of the Republic of Vanuatu," said Prime Minister Napat, urging the diplomats to prioritize post-disaster recovery, economic growth, governance reform, education, health, and climate change advocacy in their work. He also stressed the importance of defending Vanuatu's sovereignty, particularly in relation to its maritime boundaries.

    The Prime Minister concluded by thanking the diplomats for their participation and service, and wished them safe travels as they returned to their postings.

    Vanuatu's National Hospital, formerly known as Vila Central Hospital, commemorates its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of dedicated healthcare service to the people of Vanuatu.
     
    Since its opening on August 23, 1975, by Mrs. Roger Houssemayne Du Boulay, the hospital has undergone significant transformations, growing from a colonial facility with a handful of doctors and nurses to a thriving institution with a robust team of local medical professionals. The hospital's foundation stone was laid by His Royal Highness the Duke of Kent on September 8, 1969, and the new facility was dedicated by Reverend William Tamara, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of the New Hebrides.
     
    Today, the hospital boasts an impressive team of 86 local doctors, including 16 specialists, and numerous trained medical professionals. The Government of Vanuatu and donor partners, such as Japan and Australia, have provided critical support, including the provision of a CT Scan, Mammogram, and Kidney Dialysis.
     
    Prime Minister Jotham Napat emphasized the need to continue developing human resources in medical sciences to meet the growing demands of the healthcare sector. "We are committed to strengthening our healthcare system and ensuring that our people have access to quality medical care," he said.
     
    As part of the celebrations, key signings were witnessed to address the long-standing need for a proper hospital sewage treatment plant. Kramer will construct this essential facility, with contract signing scheduled for next week.
     
    "We are grateful for the support of our government and donor partners, and we look forward to the next chapter in the hospital's journey," said Prime Minister Napat. "We will continue to work to provide quality healthcare services to the people of Vanuatu."
     
    The 50th anniversary celebration is a testament to the dedication and hard work of healthcare workers, past and present, who have contributed to the hospital's growth and success

    On August 13th 2025, marked a significant milestone in the relationship between Australia and Vanuatu with the finalization of what is now known as the Nakamal Agreement. The agreement is the result of hard-fought negotiations - intensified in March this year with the strong leadership of the Prime Minister - Jotham Napat, after Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong had visited Vanuatu.
     
    The Nakamal Agreement signifies a mutual respect and understanding rooted in the core values that Vanuatu has stood for since independence.
    It stands in stark contrast to the previous agreement of 2022.
     
    The initial Bilateral Security Agreement signed by a previous government did not carry the support of the Government Caucus and Parliament at that time.
     
    The agreement was initiated when current Deputy Prime Minister, Johnny Koanapo was Minister for Internal Affairs until 2024 with Senator Marles. It's fitting, therefore, that he co-initialed the agreement with the three Australian cabinet Ministers today. He says the Nakamal Agreement embodies the spirit and practice of a meeting place, one symbolizing the meaning of Canberra which is also a meeting place similar to what we refer to as Nakamal.
     
    The negotiations, which began with the DG of Internal Affairs Leith Veremaito working on the first draft of pillars with Dr. Jason Thomas, focused on creating transformational investments through commercial policy. The negotiations continued through exchanged visits at both Ministerial and official levels.
     
    The agreement was initialed at the crater of Yasur, symbolizing its strong emphasis on mutual respect and common understanding. The ceremony's location also highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect in the partnership between the two nations.
     
    The agreement will be presented to the government caucus and Council of Ministers (COM) before formal signing by Prime Minister Jotham Napat and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese next month.
     
    A team of government officials, led by the Director-General of the Prime Minister's Office, George Maniuri, played a crucial role in the negotiations, which began in early March and concluded this morning at the highest level at the Whitegrass Ocean Resort.
     
    While details of the agreement will be known in the days ahead, concrete steps are being made towards simpler access to Australia for Vanuatu citizens
    This development is expected to strengthen ties between the two nations and facilitate greater cooperation in various areas.
     
    The Nakamal Agreement represents a new chapter in the relationship between Australia and Vanuatu says Prime Minister Napat, one built on mutual respect, trust, and shared values.
    It is a testament to the commitment of both nations to work together in a spirit of partnership and cooperation

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