Andrew Solomon Napuat

The Minister of Internal Affairs, Andrew Napuat, on a visit to Australia last month has observed the new Pacific Policing Initiative, a program designed to improve police cooperation and skills across Pacific island countries.

During his trip, Napuat toured the Pinkenba Police Training Facility in Brisbane, a new center near Brisbane Airport, built to bring together police officers from the region for various training programs.

According to the minister, two Vanuatu police officers are already at the facility, participating in leadership training alongside colleagues from other Pacific nations.

The Pacific Policing Initiative, supported by Australia, offers a range of trainings tailored to the specific needs of Pacific police forces.

This program provides a chance for regional officers to gain skills that directly address shared challenges and to collaborate on important security issues affecting the region.

Napuat emphasized that Australia’s commitment to this initiative includes both practical and strategic support for Pacific countries.

“This program will allow police officers from across the region to share their experiences, work together on security challenges, and bring valuable skills back to their countries,” he said.

The initiative also builds on past cooperation. Recently, police from various Pacific islands, including Vanuatu, joined forces in Samoa to provide security at the Commonwealth meeting.

This was the first time Pacific police collaborated on such a large scale, marking a significant step toward a regional approach to security.

In addition to training programs, Napuat highlighted Australia’s recent support for the Vanuatu Mobile Force (VMF) through facility upgrades, a project funded by the Australian Defense Force, and discussed further renovations for VMF facilities. Australian advisors are continuing their support, ensuring VMF has the resources it needs.

Minister Napuat said the VMF project is part of a larger plan to enhance Vanuatu’s defense and security capabilities.

Discussions are ongoing for additional programs and support, which he expects to announce soon.

Through the Pacific Policing Initiative, Australia is creating a platform for Pacific countries to work together more effectively, focusing on skills that help address the unique security needs of the region.

This cooperation not only strengthens local forces but also builds relationships that help the Pacific respond to challenges together.

Napuat expressed optimism about these efforts, stating that the program is a positive step forward for both Vanuatu and the broader Pacific region.

source:Vanuatu daily post