Australia is hosting the Prime Minister of Tuvalu, Feleti Teo OBE, this week in a visit that provides a crucial platform to discuss the Falepili Union, a joint initiative designed to safeguard peace, security, and sovereignty for both nations.
To enhance people-to-people ties and connectivity, Australia has announced up to $40 million in aviation and connectivity support. This funding aims to foster greater interaction and cooperation between the two countries.
Key developments under the Falepili Union include:
- Undersea Telecommunications Cable: Tuvalu’s first undersea cable, which promises transformative digital access and improved connectivity, is set to begin construction in August after thorough planning.
- Tuvalu Coastal Adaptation Project: Following the successful completion of Phase 1, which added significant land to Funafuti, the next phase will commence soon.
- Budget Support: The first tranche of budget support for critical services has been provided. A design team will visit Tuvalu in July to support a new economic governance programme.
- Guardian-class Patrol Boat: Australia has confirmed the arrival of a new Guardian-class Patrol Boat in the third quarter of this year.
This historic partnership prioritises the well-being of people, aiming to protect Tuvalu’s identity and culture while strengthening ties between Australia and Tuvalu.
Prime Minister Teo announced that the Tuvalu Government intends to open a new diplomatic mission in Canberra. This move highlights the growing bilateral relationship and will support the expanding Tuvaluan diaspora in Australia, facilitated by the Albanese Government’s Pacific Engagement Visa and the upcoming mobility pathway between Australia and Tuvalu.
Prime Minister Teo will also meet with Senator Simon Birmingham during his visit. This follows Australia’s bipartisan visit to Tuvalu in May 2024 and demonstrates Australia’s bipartisan commitment to Tuvalu and the broader Pacific region.
Prime Minister Teo’s itinerary includes visits to Brisbane, Adelaide, and Tamworth, where he will meet with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, senior government and opposition members, PALM workers, and the Tuvaluan diaspora.
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