Vanuatu is working towards opening an embassy in Japan early next year and a High Commission in Papua New Guinea by the end of this year or early next year, according to Director of Foreign Affairs Yvon Basil.

Basil says Japan has endorsed Vanuatu’s request to establish a diplomatic representation in Tokyo, and the government is now working to secure funding and select an ambassador to represent the country.

Embassy plans for Japan

“We have requested the Government of Japan to establish a diplomatic representation in Tokyo, Japan, and they have already endorsed it,” Basil says.

He says the government is now working to secure a budget to operate the office and is in the process of selecting an ambassador-designate.

The candidate will be submitted to the Council of Ministers for appointment.

“We are still in the process of selecting a candidate who has applied, then they will go to the Council of Ministers for appointment,” Basil says.

He says the government hopes to have an ambassador in Japan and the embassy operating by early next year.

High Commission planned for PNG

Vanuatu is also working with the Government of Papua New Guinea to establish a High Commission in Port Moresby.

Basil says the discussions are progressing with cooperation from the PNG Government.

“We are working with the Government of PNG, which has been very cooperative,” he says.

He says the plan is part of Vanuatu’s efforts to strengthen relationships with friendly countries, particularly members of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG).

The High Commission is expected to begin operating by the end of this year or early next year.