The Government will meet with surviving Independence pioneers and former national leaders tomorrow to help determine Vanuatu’s next course of action on the Matthew and Hunter Islands sovereignty dispute.

From a press release it states that the consultation follows recent bilateral negotiations with France that ended without agreement on the return of Umaenupne (Matthew) and Umaeneg/Leka (Hunter) Islands to Vanuatu sovereignty.

Prime Minister Jotham Napat said the Government wants to hear directly from the leaders who helped secure Vanuatu’s independence before deciding its next steps.

“Umaenupne and Umaeneg/Leka Islands are not just rocks in the ocean. They are part of our story, our land, and our future. We fought for independence, and we will fight to complete it.”

The Prime Minister said the experience and guidance of the country’s surviving Independence pioneers would be important in shaping the Government’s response.

“The pioneers who raised our flag in 1980 understand what is at stake. Their wisdom and counsel will guide our next steps.”

Following the consultations, the Prime Minister is expected to announce the outcome of the meeting and outline the Government’s way forward.

Mr Napat said while Vanuatu has remained committed to dialogue, the Government is now considering its next move after negotiations reached a deadlock.

“We have been patient at the table. Patience has its limits. We are finally deciding how Vanuatu moves from talk to action.”

The meeting marks the latest development in Vanuatu’s long-standing claim over the two islands, which are located in Tafea Province and remain at the centre of the sovereignty dispute with France.