Australia and Vanuatu Strengthen Security Partnership with New Nakamal Agreement, Lacking Clauses Against Chinese Influence

Australia's public broadcaster ABC reported today that the cabinet of the South Pacific island nation of Vanuatu has agreed to sign a new version of the 'Nakamal Agreement' with Australia. This agreement will further solidify the key security partnership between Australia and Vanuatu, but it does not include clauses to restrict China's expanding influence.

The report stated that Vanuatu's cabinet, the 'Council of Ministers,' approved the new version of the Nakamal Agreement on the 7th. It will officially take effect pending approval from the Australian government.

The report mentioned that under the old agreement, Australia was to invest AUD 500 million (approximately NTD 11.4 billion) in Vanuatu. However, in September of last year, Vanuatu's Prime Minister Jotham Napat pointed out that some ministers in his coalition government were concerned the old version of the Nakamal Agreement would harm national sovereignty, leading to a delay in the agreement's negotiation process and signing time.

Australia and China are engaged in 'a fierce diplomatic arm wrestle' over various Pacific island nations. For example, while Australia is pushing to sign the Nakamal Agreement with Vanuatu, China is simultaneously seeking to reach the 'Namele Agreement' with Vanuatu.

The report noted that the specific terms of the new Australian-Vanuatu Nakamal Agreement have not yet been made public.

Furthermore, the report cited unnamed sources indicating that the new version of the agreement does not include clauses restricting Chinese investment in Vanuatu's critical infrastructure and other sensitive areas. While it solidifies Australia's position as Vanuatu's primary security partner, it does not prevent Vanuatu from cooperating with other partners, including China.

Pat Conroy, Australia's Minister for International Development and the Pacific, stated in a media interview last week, when asked if China was attempting to undermine the Nakamal Agreement, that Australia faces a 'permanent contest' in the Pacific region, emphasizing that many countries, including China, are striving to expand their influence in the area. He believes that security issues for Pacific island nations should be led and maintained by the Pacific island nations themselves. (Editor: Chang Chih-hsuan) 1150512