France and Vanuatu begin talks over disputed Matthew and Hunter islands
France and Vanuatu have begun formal negotiations over the future of Matthew and Hunter islands, two small volcanic islands east of New Caledonia that have been at the centre of a sovereignty dispute for decades. Vanuatu is seeking to secure sovereignty over the islands, which remain under French control as part of New Caledonia. The talks mark a new phase in a long-running territorial disagreement that has been politically sensitive in both countries.The islands lie about 300 kilometres east of New Caledonia and are described as rugged, mineral-rich and volcanically active. Matthew Island and Hunter Island are separated by about... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 24 Jun 2026 20:30 LONDON
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