Tuvalu prime minister calls on Australia for sovereignty ‘guarantees’ over treaty

Tuvalu’s new prime minister, Feleti Teo, wants “guarantees” from Canberra that a landmark treaty with Australia will not undermine his country’s sovereignty.

Teo, who was appointed leader last month, told the Guardian a controversial security clause in the Falepili Union treaty has led to fears among Tuvaluans that Australia “might encroach on Tuvalu’s sovereignty”.

The treaty, signed in late 2023, states that the Pacific nation shall “mutually agree with Australia” on…