Tuvalu's Prime Minister, Willie Telavi, says he has requested New Zealand and Australian assistance for its shipping service.
Sea and air transportation is a major issue at this week's Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting in Rarotonga.
Willie Telavi says small islands need more trustworthy and reliable shipping at a cheaper cost.
"We already voiced this, for assistance of our partners to take a look into the safety of our people in regards shipping. We already have a replacement [coming] with the assistance of Japan, and we are awaiting that confirmation. In the interim, we are requesting Australia and New Zealand to look into that for an interim arrangement."
Tuvalu's Prime Minister, Willie Telavi.
