On behalf of the ULMWP and the people of West Papua, I wish the people and government of Vanuatu all the very best on your 45th Independence Day.
This Independence Day is different from previous celebrations, as the entire Pacific holds its breath and braces for the impact of this tsunami.
Nevertheless, as we all wait anxiously to assess the damage, we take this moment to celebrate the achievements of Vanuatu over the past four and a half decades. Our two peoples have always had a powerful connection of solidarity and friendship. More than any other nation, the people and government of Vanuatu always stood side-by-side with the people of West Papua – from the exile of the Black Brothers, which helped popularise our struggle, to the 2010 Wantok bill, to the 2014 Saralana Declaration which formed the ULMWP.
As long as West Papuans remain under occupation, we will always take pride and courage from both Vanuatu’s achievements and your untiring support for our struggle. Vanuatu is not only a significant voice against modern day colonialism, but also a leader in the global fight against climate change, as shown by your recent success at the International Court of Justice.
Like Vanuatu’s founding father Walter Lini, I look forward to a Pacific free from colonial rule, from West Papua to Kanaky.
Stay safe and God bless you all. Long God Yumi Stanap!
Benny Wenda
President
ULMWP
