AGP Executive Report
Last update: an hour agoNakamal Agreement Signed: Australia and Vanuatu finally inked the long-delayed Nakamal Agreement in Canberra, locking in “no foreign military base” on Vanuatu soil and keeping critical infrastructure free from militarisation, foreign interference and unauthorised access, while Australia commits expanded economic and policing support (reported around A$500m) and a consult role on third-party investment in sensitive infrastructure. Sovereignty Fight Over Terms: The deal was watered down after Port Vila and coalition concerns that earlier drafts could restrict Vanuatu’s ability to attract infrastructure funding from other partners, including China. China Pushback: China’s foreign ministry warned Australia against “geopolitical games” and said cooperation with Pacific states should not target third parties, as Beijing continues to seek influence in the region. Regional Governance Focus: PM Matthew Wale used talks with PNG PM James Marape to call for a stronger, more effective Melanesian Spearhead Group to better deliver on regional political, trade and security priorities.
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