Vanuatu minister contradicts own government on Chinese police drawdown

Vanuatu minister contradicts own government on Chinese police drawdown

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Vanuatu's Internal Affairs Minister Andrew Napuat has stated that the country has not made any decision to reduce China's police presence, contradicting an earlier joint statement with Australia.

The joint statement, which was given a green light by both governments, stressed that China's police assistance program with Vanuatu is "time-limited and expected to reduce over time".

A federal government source said Mr Napuat's message on policing was "very different" to one conveyed by another Vanuatu government official last week.

Mr Napuat also appeared to take aim at the clause in the joint statement, saying there was "no need to talk about a third party in any agreements".

He stated that Vanuatu will not take sides in its relationships, highlighting the country's long-standing position of being a friend to all and an enemy to none.

Mr Napuat also criticised the ABC's report on the statement, saying it suggested that Vanuatu was "targeting" China, and stressing that the country still needs policing assistance from Beijing, as well as other international partners.

At the moment, Vanuatu is still building its police force, according to Mr Napuat.