Vanuatu

[vah-noo-ah-too]

noun

1. a republic consisting of a group of 80 islands in the southern Pacific, about 1,000 miles (1,600 km) northeast of Australia: formerly under joint British and French administration; gained independence 1980. About 5,700 sq. mi. (14,763 sq. km). Vila.

Vanuatu

/ ˈvænuːˌætuː /

noun

1. Former name (until 1980): New Hebrides. Official name: Republic of Vanuatu. a republic comprising a group of islands in the W Pacific, W of Fiji: a condominium under Anglo-French joint rule from 1906; attained partial autonomy in 1978 and full independence in 1980 as a member of the Commonwealth. Its economy is based chiefly on copra. Official languages: Bislama; French; English. Religion: Christian majority. Currency: vatu. Capital: Vila (on Efate). Pop: 261 565 (2013 est). Area: about 14 760 sq km (5700 sq miles)

Other Word Forms

• Vanuatuan adjective

Example Sentences

In August, Australia also signed a $328m security and business deal with Vanuatu, which involves the building of two data centres, strengthening of security and help dealing with the impacts of climate change.

From BBC

In earlier stages of the negotiations, visa-free travel for citizens of Vanuatu was also discussed and considered a key part of the deal.

From BBC

A Vanuatu government spokesman said authorities were "definitely looking into" Tate's citizenship.

From BBC

About a century ago on the Pacific island of Vanuatu, a messiah cult centered on a mythical figure named John Frum, who would bring riches and happiness, rooted itself among the local population.

From Salon

The prime minister of Vanuatu has ordered the cancellation of a passport issued by the island nation to fugitive Indian businessman Lalit Modi, who is wanted by Delhi in a corruption case.

From BBC