What is China doing in Vanuatu?

What is China doing in Vanuatu?

According to reporting by Fairfax Media, China and Vanuatu are in negotiations to allow China to open a permanent military base on Vanuatu. China is funding the construction of a new wharf on Espiritu Santo, which Australian government officials believe could be used to host naval vessels.

Does China have a military base in Vanuatu?

No-one in the Vanuatu Government has ever talked about a Chinese military base in Vanuatu of any sort. As the story spiralled out of control, he then told SBS News it was “fake news” concocted by a Fairfax Media journalist. Multiple Chinese government sources have denied the story and also described it as “fake news”.

Is it safe to travel to Vanuatu?

Violent crime in Vanuatu is rare, but petty crime occurs. Ensure that your personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents are secure at all times. Home break-ins occur, even when the occupants are present. Lock your doors and windows at night and when you are not home.

How does Australia support Vanuatu with foreign aid?

In 2020, Australia’s initial $17 million COVID-19 response package supported Vanuatu to: purchase medical equipment, upgrade health infrastructure and provide PPE for health workers; design and deliver an economic stimulus package to subsidise wages and help businesses retain staff and diversify services; and support …

Which country does Vanuatu belong to?

Before it’s independence in 1980, Vanuatu was jointly administered by France and the U.K. known as the New Hebrides for 74 years. Today, Vanuatu is a republic with a non-executive presidency. The President is elected by Parliament together with the Presidents of the regional councils and serves a five-year term.

How much money does Fiji owe China?

Meanwhile, Fiji owed the EXIM Bank of China $441 million while it owed the Japan International Cooperation Agency $288 million. The debt report stated that the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) was owed $103 million while $720,000 was owed to the International Fund for Agricultural Development.

Does Vanuatu have a military?

There are no regular military forces in Vanuatu, and no conscription to the other security forces. The Vanuatu Mobile Forces, which supplements the Vanuatu Police Force, is a paramilitary unit of about 250 men.

Are there cannibals in Vanuatu?

While the people of Vanuatu no longer practice cannibalism, the customary cooking practices are still passed down through generations. Apparently the standard cooking time for a human is 3 to 5 hours.

Does Australia trade with Vanuatu?

Australia-Vanuatu In 2020, Australia exported $38.5M to Vanuatu. The main products that Australia exported to Vanuatu are Poultry Meat ($4.33M), Recreational Boats ($3.62M), and Rolled Tobacco ($2.84M).