The Prime Minister Jotham Napat has reaffirmed Vanuatu’s position on the disputed Matthew and Hunter Islands, saying the country’s sovereignty remains non-negotiable.
He said Vanuatu believes in friendship, international law and diplomacy, but will continue defending its territorial integrity for future generations.
“We believe in friendship and international law, but we also believe we must always protect our sovereignty. Sovereignty is something every generation has a responsibility to defend,” he said during Vanuatu’s 46th Independence anniversary last week.
Napat said the Government will continue pursuing peaceful solutions through Melanesian solidarity and cultural diplomacy, pointing to the Mota Lava Treaty with Solomon Islands as an example of regional cooperation.
He added that no island or part of Vanuatu would ever be left behind.
