Vanuatu demands France hand back remote Matthew and Hunter Islands in the Pacific
Vanuatu has formally requested that France return the Matthew and Hunter Islands, which have been under French control since 1975. The islands are a point of contention due to their volcanic nature and cultural significance to Vanuatu's Tafea Province.
Why it matters
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions regarding colonial-era borders and sovereignty in the Pacific, impacting diplomatic relations between France, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu.
Vanuatu demands France hand back remote Matthew and Hunter Islands in the Pacific By Kyle Evans Topic: Volcanic Eruptions
The article presents the historical context and the perspectives of both the French-loyalist government and the pro-independence movement in New Caledonia neutrally.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in