Vanuatu PM Charlot Salwai to Visit NZ for Talks on Key Regional Issues

“New Zealand and Vanuatu share a strong and enduring friendship, and both are committed to a safe, secure, and prosperous Pacific Region,” Mr. Luxon said.

Prime Minister Charlot Salwai of Vanuatu will visit New Zealand next week for discussions with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on several critical issues, including labour mobility, climate change, and regional cooperation.

"New Zealand and Vanuatu share a strong and enduring friendship, and both are committed to a safe, secure, and prosperous Pacific Region," Mr. Luxon said. "I look forward to strengthening our partnership and reaffirming New Zealand's role as a reliable ally to Vanuatu."

This visit, which marks Mr. Salwai's third official trip to New Zealand, follows his last visit in 2019. He will be accompanied by Vanuatu's Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Rick Tchamako Mahe.

The New Zealand-Vanuatu relationship is notably supported by the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, with Vanuatu being a significant contributor of seasonal workers. During his visit, Prime Minister Salwai will meet with Mr. Luxon and Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters, engage with RSE workers, and participate in various meetings in Auckland.

The discussions are expected to focus on advancing Pacific regionalism, enhancing labour mobility arrangements, and addressing climate change challenges, underscoring the shared regional interests between the two nations.