Vanuatu’s Expanding Role in China’s Blue Economy Vision

On March 7, 2025, Li Minggang, the Chinese Ambassador to Vanuatu, met with Jack Norris Kalmet, the newly appointed Minister of Fisheries, Ocean and Maritime Affairs of Vanuatu, marking an important diplomatic meeting between the two nations.

The two leaders explored Vanuatu's increasingly important role in China's blue economy, a key strategic area of mutual interest. Ambassador Li pointed out that China and Vanuatu have made steady progress in fisheries cooperation, especially with the growing trade volume of seafood products between Vanuatu and China.

Ambassador Li emphasized China's willingness to actively implement various high-level agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation in the marine field and promoting the development of a "blue partnership." This reflects China's firm commitment to deepening cooperation with Vanuatu in the marine economy sector.

Minister Kalmet emphasized that Vanuatu possesses abundant marine resources and vast territorial waters, which are key advantages for Vanuatu to advance cooperation with China. In order to increase exports, Minister Kalmet expressed Vanuatu's intention to deepen cooperation with China in fisheries and marine-related fields, ultimately benefiting both countries through increased trade and sustainable ocean management.