Major signings between Fiji and Australia
Whilst in Suva, Fiji, Prime Minister Albanese of Australia has joined his Fijian counterpart, Sitveni Rabuka, in signing two major documents. The Vuvale Union is an elevation of the pre-existing agreement which now takes on treaty status. The Ocean of Peace Alliance marks only the fourth such arrangement entered into by Australia. It is focused on defence and security, with the possibility of other Pacific countries which have militaries (New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Tonga) joining in the future.
Elections in Cook Islands
Voters in Cook Islands will head to the polls on August 12th. Caretaker Prime Minister Mark Brown has been keeping the date for elections close to his chest during this year. The announcement on June 26th prompted the Opposition leader, Tina Pupuke-Browne (Democratic Party) to complain about the short timeframe. The period for candidate nominations will close on July 13th. No doubt the cost-of-living crisis will be at the forefront of voters’ minds as will the future of the relationship with New Zealand.
Vanuatu and France at loggerheads over border dispute
A longstanding border dispute between Vanuatu and France is in focus with increased diplomatic activity on the part of the Napat government. The islands of Matthew and Hunter lie between New Caledonia and Vanuatu. They are claimed by both Vanuatu and France. Deputy Prime Minister Johnny Koanapo recently travelled to Paris to try and progress government to government talks to resolve this issue. Vanuatu has previously expressed frustration over France slow rolling the negotiation process.
American pilot shot dead in West Papua
The West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNBP) has claimed responsibility for setting a civilian aircraft on fire and shooting dead the pilot (named as Nicholas F Gosselin). The TPNBP has described these actions as a “message” to the governments of Indonesia and the USA. Their spokesperson, Sebby Sambom, said that the attack was a result of the TPNBP’s ultimatum that civilian planes were not permitted to land in areas of the disputed region which they control.
About the author: Dr Tess Newton Cain is Principal Consultant at Sustineo. She is also a distinguished academic and researcher with over 25 years of unmatched experience in delivering exceptional policy, research, and analysis to drive strategic development across the Pacific islands region.
