The Government of Vanuatu says it is disappointed by misleading reports in sections of the Australian media regarding the country’s recent amendments to its national security legislation.

In the statement, the Government clarified that Vanuatu has not expelled or removed any foreign advisers, contrary to claims made by the ABC and the Epoch Times.

Instead, under the amendments passed by Parliament, foreign advisers working in national security are now required to operate from neutral locations or from their respective embassies. This is to ensure a clear line of separation in responsibilities and to safeguard Vanuatu’s sovereignty.

The Prime Minister stated that the decision reflects Vanuatu’s strong commitment to its non-aligned status and its determination to make decisions based solely on the interests of its people.

The statement added that Vanuatu values its longstanding relationships with all its development partners and calls on them to respect the nation’s sovereignty and its decisions. The Government also urged citizens to remain united and vigilant in protecting the country’s sovereignty and its future