Nauru and Australia have taken a significant step forward in their partnership by signing a $388 million (US$250 million) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at resettling certain groups of people under long-term visas in Nauru. This agreement, finalized on Tuesday, establishes the Nauru Trust Fund 2, which is designed to support a 30-year resettlement program through capital investments.
This new trust fund is separate from an initial setup fee of $20 million (US$12.98 million) and includes additional annual payments intended for operational costs. Tawaki Kam, the Deputy Minister for Internal Affairs who represented Nauru during the signing, emphasized that this agreement reinforces the already strong bond between Nauru and Australia.
Kam highlighted that the MOU embodies a shared commitment to a humane and lawful approach to migration and resettlement. He assured that individuals being resettled in Nauru will be treated with dignity, enjoying freedom of movement and access to essential services, in line with the country’s international human rights obligations.
The initiative is viewed as crucial for Nauru’s long-term stability and prosperity for future generations. It reinforces Nauru’s position as a key regional ally for Australia in terms of migration management while boosting its economic resilience through targeted funding and investments.
Moreover, this agreement reflects a broader trend in Nauru’s strategic approach to complex immigration issues. The ongoing enhancement of its role as a resettlement destination shows a readiness to engage responsibly with global migration challenges.
As Nauru deepens its partnership with Australia, there is an optimistic outlook that these collaborations may pave the way for more humane and compassionate immigration policies that honor human rights while addressing the vital needs of regional security and stability.