Today, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles met with Minister for Internal Affairs, the Hon Andrew Napuat in Cairns to mark the return of Vanuatu's Guardian-class Patrol Boat, RVS Takuare.
RVS Takuare has been undergoing repairs to the hull and an internal fit-out after the vessel suffered catastrophic damage during Cyclone Kevin in 2023.
This marks an important milestone in Australia and Vanuatu's maritime security cooperation under the Pacific Maritime Security Program - Australia's 30-year commitment of uninterrupted engagement with our Pacific partners.
The Guardian-class Patrol Boat capability allows Vanuatu to continue the important work of protecting ni‑Vanuatu sovereign maritime resources, supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, responding national priorities and contributing to regional maritime security.
During his bilateral meeting with Minister Napuat, the Deputy Prime Minister also reaffirmed the shared commitment of Vanuatu and Australia to develop a new Nakamal agreement which will cover a broad range of issues including economic resilience, security, and climate change.
As close Pacific neighbours, Australia warmly welcomes the invitation from Vanuatu for a Nakamal agreement and looks forward to using this concept to strengthen our ties.
A Nakamal is a meeting place in Vanuatu where the community and its leaders discuss, consult, and make decisions. Australia is honoured to have this name attached to a bilateral initiative.
Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Richard Marles MP:
"Australia is proud to continue growing our strong defence partnership with Vanuatu, working together to respond and support Vanuatu in maintaining its maritime capability to support a secure and prosperous Pacific.
"The return of RVS Takuare to Vanuatu following repairs demonstrates our shared commitment to upholding a deep and ensuring partnership, founded on our values and vision.
"We are listening to Vanuatu's priorities and looking to match their ambition with our own. Australia welcomes the opportunity to enhance its relationship with Vanuatu through a Nakamal agreement which will cover a range of issues including economic resilience, security, and climate change."
