Embassies

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade is responsible for cultivating and maintaining Vanuatu’s international relations. Vanuatu maintains positive bilateral relations with more than 65 countries, including Russia, the People’s Republic of China, Cuba and Vietnam. The foreign policy of Vanuatu is focused on non-alignment with a commitment to peace-building and participation in peace-keeping missions. Vanuatu is a member of the United Nations with a permanent mission to New York.

Bilateral cooperation exists been Vanuatu and many countries. However, only a few countries maintain embassies, high commissions or missions in the capital city of Port Vila, namely Australia, France, New Zealand and the People’s Republic of China. The Australian High Commission Aid Programme (DAP) is used to promote economic and social development in Vanuatu with an emphasis on assisting rural communities. China, who established diplomatic ties with Vanuatu in 1982, implements its ‘One China’ policy through its embassy in Port Vila, pursuing trade partners and funding educational expansion.

Vanuatu maintains some 10 embassies and consulates around the world, including China, Israel and the United States. Vanuatu is a member of the United Nations with a permanent mission to New York which, in the past, was an active voice in the movement towards decolonisation, and more recently, is dedicated to the fight against climate change. Embassies and other foreign missions can be contacted for information on consular matters such as visas, passports and travel.