Prime Minister Jotham Napat used Vanuatu’s 45th Independence Anniversary address to urge unity, mutual respect and a long-term national vision as the island nation faces ongoing political and economic challenges. Speaking at the national celebration, Napat warned that “individual efforts alone cannot build Vanuatu” and said that “disrespecting one another cannot bring national harmony.” He described divisive political thinking as “like a cancer that has caused many setbacks in our country’s progress over the past 30 years.”
Napat reminded citizens that Vanuatu is one country of 83 islands and appealed for a wider focus than narrow maritime disputes, calling instead for a renewed commitment to full sovereignty. He said that view was reinforced by what he described as a “very positive nakamal discussion” with French President Emmanuel Macron during a recent visit to Paris.
Framing current difficulties as “birth pains” of nation-building, the prime minister said the government is focused on laying foundations for long-term goals rather than reacting only to short-term problems. He pointed to the administration’s preparations as part of the road to Vanuatu’s Golden Jubilee and the completion of The People’s Plan in 2030, and urged citizens to understand and support necessary restructuring for future development.
Faith and traditional Melanesian values, Napat said, are Vanuatu’s “chart and compass.” He argued these principles, embedded in the constitution, can keep the nation on course through changes in leadership. Quoting the country’s first prime minister, Father Walter Lini, Napat recalled Lini’s 1980 words: “We are moving into a period of rapid change rather like a canoe entering a patch of rough water: God and custom must be the sail and the steering-paddle of our canoe.” He also cited Franklin D. Roosevelt’s maxim—“Rough seas make good sailors”—translated into Bislama: “Strongfala solwota i save help blong shapem wan gud sailor.”
Context and regional engagement
The independence anniversary included celebrations at home and among the Vanuatu diaspora, with public discussions on the country’s future held at the University of the South Pacific in Fiji. Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa attended national events in Port Vila, praising Vanuatu’s resilience and leadership in regional diplomacy; he also noted the country’s role in the International Court of Justice climate-related proceedings that have drawn global attention.
Earlier this year, Prime Minister Napat signalled a foreign policy focus that includes strengthening international partnerships—part of a broader effort to secure development support and regional cooperation as Vanuatu addresses recovery, governance and climate resilience.
Summary
On the 45th anniversary of independence, PM Jotham Napat called for unity, respect and a long-term vision rooted in faith and Melanesian values. He framed current hardships as part of nation-building, underscored the government’s focus on planning toward 2030 and the Golden Jubilee, and highlighted recent international discussions that reinforced Vanuatu’s sovereign aims.
Comments and context for publication
– This speech reinforces two clear themes for coverage: national unity as the prerequisite for development, and a long-term planning horizon (People’s Plan/Golden Jubilee) that the government is using to justify structural reforms. Emphasize how cultural values are being positioned as stability anchors amid political change.
– Highlighting the participation of the diaspora and regional leaders (e.g., Baron Waqa) underscores Vanuatu’s regional influence and the international dimension of its resilience and climate advocacy.
– For context pieces, consider linking this address to earlier statements by PM Napat on foreign partnerships and governance priorities—readers will benefit from understanding how domestic unity and international engagement form a single strategy for small island resilience.
– Suggested tags: Vanuatu, Jotham Napat, Independence Day, Pacific, unity, People’s Plan, Golden Jubilee, climate diplomacy.
Hopeful angle
Napat’s appeal for unity and reliance on long-standing cultural and spiritual anchors offers a constructive framework for a small, diverse nation to face external pressures and internal divisions. Framing current problems as “birth pains” suggests an outlook that sees difficulties as part of growth—a message that can help galvanize citizens and partners around reconstruction, climate resilience and the shared milestones ahead.
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