ambassadors

It follows a statement from the envoys calling for the urgent release of activist Osman Kavala.

He has been in jail for more than four years over protests and a coup attempt, although he has not been convicted.

Persona non grata can remove diplomatic status and often results in expulsion or withdrawal of recognition of envoys.

This week's statement on Kavala jointly came from the embassies of the US, Canada, France, Finland, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway and Sweden.

The annual event, which starts today, brings together ambassadors, high commissioners and consul-generals to discuss the foreign and development policy objectives of the country.

The discussions will also involve cabinet ministers and key government agencies.

The meeting provides an opportunity for ambassadors to report on their achievements in 2017 and for the government to give them new directions for 2018.

Around the world, Vanuatu has seven embassies and high commissions and two consul-general offices.