Vanuatu and France are set to resume negotiations regarding unresolved maritime boundary delimitation and sovereignty issues over two islands. This development follows a successful recent round of talks in France concerning Vanuatu’s acquisition of new Airbus A220 aircraft.
The two islands, Matthew and Hunter, are located in Vanuatu’s Tafea Province, yet France asserts ownership of these uninhabited territories. The ongoing discussion around these islands has remained a significant topic in the bilateral relations between the two countries.
A joint statement from Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat and French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated their commitment to resolving the sovereignty issue amicably. The two leaders have agreed on maintaining a constructive dialogue and have instructed their negotiating teams to hold discussions promptly. The first round of resumed negotiations is anticipated to take place in Port Vila following the autumn celebrations, with a subsequent round in France before the year’s end.
This renewed dialogue offers a hopeful prospect for both nations, emphasizing their dedication to fostering cooperative relations. As Vanuatu continues to navigate complex international relationships, the collaborative efforts with France could lead to a significant resolution that strengthens Vanuatu’s territorial integrity while promoting regional stability.
The sense of optimism surrounding these negotiations aligns with broader regional partnerships, indicating a potential for constructive outcomes that support both nations’ aspirations for peace and development. Through open communication and cooperation, there exists a promising opportunity to enhance bilateral ties and ensure a more harmonious future for the Pacific region.
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