Prime Minister Hon. Jotham Napat assured private sector leaders in Santo that the government is committed to implementing economic reforms aimed at easing business operations, expanding infrastructure, and strengthening aid and economic cooperation.

Following his meeting with public servants on Monday, the Prime Minister engaged with key economic contributors to address concerns raised by the private sector. Discussions covered agriculture, cruise ship schedules to Santo, airport expansion, land leases, and other economic challenges impacting businesses.

PM Napat emphasized the need for strategic planning in key areas, particularly aid, economic, and security cooperation. “As I’ve told the Director of DESPAC, strategize! Aid cooperation, economic cooperation, and security cooperation—security comes last. We must first focus on these two areas and then revive the central agency to take on board the concerns raised, especially regarding infrastructure,” he stated.

He reassured the private sector of the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns. “I give you my assurance that the government is committed, and we will do everything in our power to bring about a significant turnaround. If I do not deliver, I will step down,” Napat declared.

Regarding domestic flight services, the Prime Minister confirmed that the government has allocated funds in its budget to approve the purchase of three new aircraft. “The government has plans, and it is in the budget. We will purchase three aircraft to support domestic flights, ensuring passengers can travel across all our stations. By March 24, the government will finalize the budget,” he said.

Napat urged patience from the private sector as the government works to resolve key issues, strengthen partnerships, and rebuild Vanuatu’s economy.