Vanuatu leaders in France to strengthen ties, revisit Airbus deal

July 21, 2025 10:18 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Doddy Morris.

Prime Minister (PM) Jotham Napat is leading a high-level delegation to France this week for important meetings aimed at strengthening the relationship between Vanuatu and France.

The PM left the country on Sunday, July 20, and will meet with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. The visit will focus on deepening cooperation, finding new investment opportunities, and discussing key issues that affect both countries.

Joining him is Deputy Prime Minister Johnny Koanapo, who travelled earlier. As Minister of Finance and Economic Management, according to a statement by the Prime Minister’s office, Minister Koanapo will make a key stop in Toulouse to meet with Airbus officials.

In 2019, Vanuatu signed a VT2 billion deal with Airbus to buy four A220 aircraft for Air Vanuatu. The plan was to expand the national airline and improve international connections. However, the deal stalled due to financial difficulties, the impact of COVID-19, and political changes.

The upcoming meeting in Toulouse could lead to renewed talks or new proposals with Airbus, signaling fresh interest in improving Vanuatu’s aviation sector.

The delegation will also meet with Bred Bank and the French Development Agency (AFD) to discuss financial support and development partnerships.

While the PM is overseas, Minister of Agriculture Ian Wilson is acting as Prime Minister.

This visit shows Vanuatu’s commitment to building strong international partnerships and exploring ways to boost the country’s economy and services through global cooperation.