Prime Minister Charlot Salwai in Parliament (file image) Photo: Vanuatu Parliament
Vanuatu Prime Minister Charlot Salwai will visit New Zealand next week.
He is set to meet with his New Zealand counterpart Christopher Luxon for talks on labour mobility, climate change, advancing Pacific regionalism and other areas of mutual interest.
The New Zealand Prime Minister's Office said Vanuatu is a key partner to New Zealand's Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, providing the largest number of employees each year.
Luxon said the two countries have a long-standing friendship.
"Both aspire to a safe, secure and economically prosperous Pacific region," he said.
"I'm looking forward to building on our relationship and reaffirming New Zealand's support as a trusted partner to Vanuatu."
This will be Salwai's third official visit as prime minister and his first since 2019.
He is also set to meet with foreign minister Winston Peters and connect with RSE workers, as well as having a range of meetings in Auckland.
Salwai will be accompanied by Vanuatu's Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Rick Tchamako Mahe.
Meanwhile, Australian foreign minister Penny Wong took to social media to congratulate Vanuatu on 44 years of independence.
"Australia's long historical connections have led to the modern, comprehensive partnership we share today based on respect and shared democratic values," she wrote.