Vanuatu is seeking stronger cooperation with Melanesian neighbours as concerns grow over drug trafficking and transnational crime in the Pacific.
The issue was discussed during a meeting between Minister of Internal Affairs Andrew Solomon Napuat and Solomon Islands Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services John Junior Tuhaika, as both countries moved closer to signing a new security cooperation agreement.
From a press release it states that the proposed Memorandum of Understanding will strengthen collaboration between the Vanuatu Police Force and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force in policing, security and border management.
However, both ministers said the growing threat of illicit drug trafficking was a key reason for strengthening regional partnerships.
Napuat said Melanesian countries must work together to address challenges that cross national borders.
“I have realised the need for stronger collaboration between our Melanesian brothers and countries. That is why I have taken the initiative to engage with my colleague ministers across Melanesia to formalise agreements in policing, security and cooperation.”
He said Vanuatu is also pursuing similar arrangements with Fiji and Papua New Guinea to improve coordination across the region.
The discussions also highlighted the importance of Operation SOLVAN, a long-running joint maritime patrol initiative between Vanuatu and Solomon Islands that supports border security and protects shared waters.
Both ministers reaffirmed that the proposed agreement will build on existing partnerships between the two countries, including the Tirvau Agreement and the Motalava Treaty.
Napuat said support from the National Security Council and Council of Ministers has already cleared the way for the agreement, with signing arrangements now being finalised.
He added that stronger regional cooperation will help Pacific nations tackle illegal fishing, transnational crime and drug trafficking, which continue to pose growing challenges across the region.
