Tuvalu has strengthened its ability to police its waters and protect its resources following the handover of a new inshore patrol vessel at Funafuti Port, marking a key step in its partnership with Japan and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime(UNODC).
The handover underscores growing cooperation between Tuvalu, the Government of Japan and UNODC, focused on improving maritime security in the Pacific.
Tuvalu Prime Minister Feleti Penitala Teo said the vessel will play a critical role in national security and resource protection.
“The inshore patrol vessel will greatly strengthen Tuvalu’s national capacity to safeguard our waters, enforce our laws, and protect our resources for future generations.”
He said the event reflects the strength of the partnership behind the support.
“This event signifies the enduring partnership and solidarity that Tuvalu embraces with UNODC and the Government of Japan.”
Japan’s Ambassador to Tuvalu, Hiroshi Tajima, said the vessel will improve Tuvalu’s response capability at sea.
“This vessel will enhance Tuvalu’s ability to patrol its coastal waters, deter illegal activities, and respond swiftly and safely to incidents at sea.”
He added the handover reflects ongoing cooperation between the partners.
“Today’s handover symbolises our continued partnership and mutual trust.”
For Tuvalu, a large ocean state with limited resources, the vessel is expected to strengthen the work of the Tuvalu Police Service in tackling illegal activities and protecting marine resources.
The handover also signals deeper ties between Tuvalu, Japan and UNODC, with a shared focus on security, resilience and sustainable development in the Pacific.
