Vanuatu’s Prime Minister, Jotham Napat, has paused the Australia–Vanuatu security agreement, pushing for visa-free travel for ni-Vanuatu and a “win-win” arrangement before moving forward. This move has triggered speculation across Australian and Western media that China’s influence may be behind this decision, but is that really the case?
What is the Agreement?
The Australia–Vanuatu “Nakamal Agreement”, signed in 2022, aims to strengthen cooperation in policing, cybersecurity, climate response, and migration. Australia views it as essential to deepening ties and countering China’s growing presence in the Pacific.
Why Did Vanuatu Pause It?
PM Napat has emphasized that the deal is on hold not to favor China, but to ensure it truly benefits Vanuatu’s interests. His government is demanding:
✅ Visa-free travel for ni-Vanuatu to Australia.
✅ A stronger focus on climate change priorities.
✅ A “win-win” approach that aligns with Vanuatu’s development goals.
Is China Behind the Decision?
Western outlets have contextualized the pause amid concerns over China’s regional activities, particularly with China’s security and police ties in the Pacific. However, PM Napat has publicly rejected the notion that the pause is pro-China, asserting a neutral, Vanuatu-first stance prioritizing climate, development, and migration benefits for the people.
Why This Matters
This decision highlights a broader Pacific trend: island nations asserting sovereignty and negotiating better deals that:
- Provide economic and travel opportunities for citizens.
- Address climate vulnerability, a real security concern for Pacific countries.
- Avoid becoming pawns in broader geopolitical rivalries.
While Australia sees the agreement as a tool to counter China, Vanuatu insists that it must deliver practical benefits or it will remain paused.
Final Word
Vanuatu has paused, not cancelled, the agreement, opening the door for renegotiation. Whether Australia will adjust its approach to meet Vanuatu’s demands for visa-free travel and climate focus will determine the future of the partnership, amid evolving Pacific power dynamics.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It summarizes publicly available reporting from Reuters, ABC, The Guardian, and other news outlets on Vanuatu’s pause of its security agreement with Australia. The views presented do not represent the official stance of the Vanuatu Government or any government agency. Readers are encouraged to review the original news sources for further context and updates.
Mattdotvu 
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