AUSTRALIA and Vanuatu have announced a new initiative to build up the Melanesian country’s security capability.
Announced yesterday, it will include significant infrastructure upgrades for the Vanuatu Mobile Force and Police Maritime Wing and enhanced training and leadership opportunities for all three arms of the Vanuatu Police Force.
A statement from the Australian Prime Minister’s office said this underscored Australia’s commitment to working with Pacific partners to build a more strategically secure, economically stable and politically sovereign region.
An Australian Defence Advisor will be based in Vanuatu to support the initiative, it said.
Australia will also provide additional support to the Vanuatu Police Force, including the training of over 300 new recruits.
The two countries are also working to further strengthen ties through a Bilateral Security Treaty.
