Vanuatu is calling for a "please explain" from France over the latest French naval visit to the disputed Matthew and Hunter Islands.
France and Vanuatu both claim the uninhabited islands, lying southeast of Vanuatu and east of New Caledonia, and they've been holding talks to try and resolve the issue.
Vanuatu's foreign minister Ralph Regenvanu wanted the explanation following reports that officers from a French naval vessel landed on the islands in January, polished a plaque and painted the French flag on a rock.
Vanuatu MP Johnny Koanapo has been involved in the negotiations and told Sally Round France was being hypocritical in its actions.
The red marker shows where Matthew and Hunter are in relation to Vanuatu and New Caledonia. Photo: Google maps
