By Ricky Binihi - Vanuatu Daily Post Vanuatu Deputy Prime Minister Sato Kilman told senior representatives of the struggle for West Papua independence Vanuatu would adhere to the wish and aspirations of their Melanesian brothers and sisters in the troubled Melanesian country for an independent West Papua. A high level West Papua delegation headed by the International Spokesman for West Papua Dr John Ondawame recently paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Foreign Affairs where they were assured of Vanuatu’s unrelenting support for self-determination in West Papua.

A proposed Bill of parliament to give binding power and political base for the West Papua cause was also discussed the Foreign Affairs Minister.

“The deputy prime minister said that the law was crucial because such move would give long term support within parliament and government,” Dr John Ondawame told Daily Post.

At the recent Melanesian Trust meeting on Tanna, delegates from other Melanesian countries and Vanuatu chiefs unanimously adopted a resolution that the Parliament of Vanuatu passes that specific piece of legislation.

Foreign Affairs Minister Kilman however emphasised the importance of dialogue with the Indonesian government about the West Papua issue.

According to Mr Kilman, such meetings may develop new common understanding and cooperation in addressing the plight of West Papuans.

The Vanuatu government is considering approaching the Secretary General of the Pacific Island Forum countries and the Papua New Guinea government to put West Papua on the agenda of the 36th PIF meeting in Port Moresby later this year.

Vanuatu’s backing for the struggle for West Papua independence has always been high on Vanuatu’s foreign policy before and after Independence.

People like the late Father Walter Lini, the former Secretary General of the National Party, currently Melanesian Progressive Party President, Agriculture Minister Barak Sope, and the Acting Ombudsman Mr Iolu Abbil had championed the cause for West Papua Independence.

“To see young aspiring leaders like Minister Kilman keep track on the vision of the Vanuatu fathers of independence against oppression is very encouraging,” Dr Ondawame said.