Vanuatu Flag has issued circular on their policy on territorial waters of Georgia inline with International maritime law and territorial sovereignty. Vanuatu flag vessels are mandated to operate in adherence to this policy.
As per the circular Vanuatu Flag recognizes the right of innocent passage under UNCLOS, however it states that UNCLOS doesn’t exempt vessel from complying with the specific policies set forth by the flag with respect to Georgia territorial integrity.
With immediate effect all Vanuatu flag vessels are required to avoid navigating within the territorial waters of Georgia without the necessary permission from Georgian authorities, particularly in areas designated as occupied waters.
Vanuatu flag will take stern action for any violation to this directive which may include sanction or revocation of flag registry.