PAPUA New Guinea and Vanuatu have reaffirmed their shared commitment to peace, security and regional cooperation through the signing of the Kumul / Vanua Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Police Cooperation, Liaison and the Exchange of Information between the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) and the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF).
The agreement was witnessed by Papua New Guinea Minister for Police, Sir John Pundari, and Vanuatu Minister responsible for Internal Security, Andrew Napuat, marking an important milestone in the relationship between the two Melanesian nations and in the broader spirit of Pacific regional cooperation.
The signing reflects the long-standing and valued relationship between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu, built on mutual respect, understanding and support between Melanesian families connected by history, geography and culture.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Pundari said the partnership comes at a critical time for the Pacific region.
“Our Pacific is an Ocean of Peace, as described by Prime Minister James Marape, and this concept reflects the consistent aspiration of Pacific Islands leaders for a region where our people can live in safety, prosperity and stability.”
Minister Pundari said while Pacific nations continue to champion peace and cooperation, they face a growing threat from transnational criminal networks operating across borders and exploiting the region’s geographic vulnerabilities.
The impacts of transnational crime are already being felt across the Pacific through illicit trafficking, organised crime, financial crime and other criminal activities that undermine economic development, community safety and public wellbeing.
“We are fighting a threat on another front which is already amongst us. The presence and impact of transnational crime in the Pacific carries economic, social and health consequences for our people. These impacts are real and will continue to affect our island nations if we do not work together.”
Minister Pundari emphasised that no country can address these challenges alone and that strong partnerships remain essential to safeguarding the region’s future.
“It is for this reason that continuing to strengthen partnerships with regional partners is paramount. Our collective security depends on trusted relationships, effective information sharing and practical cooperation between our law enforcement agencies.”
The Kumul MoU establishes a framework for enhanced cooperation between the RPNGC and VPF, supporting greater collaboration in training, information sharing, professional exchanges, leadership development and operational cooperation. The agreement builds upon the broader Bilateral Framework Agreement on Development and Technical Cooperation signed between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu in 2024.
The Ministers also welcomed a range of practical initiatives under the agreement aimed at strengthening police capability, developing future leaders, enhancing intelligence cooperation and supporting institutional capacity building between the two police organisations.
Minister Pundari said Papua New Guinea remains committed to supporting peace, stability and security across the Pacific and to standing alongside Vanuatu as a trusted partner and neighbour.
“Let this agreement not simply be a document signed today, but a living partnership that delivers real outcomes for our police institutions and, most importantly, for the people we serve. Together, we can strengthen trust, deepen cooperation and contribute to a safer and more resilient Pacific region.”
The Ministers expressed confidence that the Kumul MoU will further strengthen police-to-police cooperation, reinforce the rule of law, and contribute to regional security through enduring partnerships between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu.