President of Vanuatu dies aged 67

The president of Vanuatu, Womtelo Reverend Baldwin Lonsdale, has died suddenly at the age of 67.

Australian Governor-General Peter Cosgrove extended condolences to the president's family, government and the people of Vanuatu following his death on Friday night.

"Lynne and I recall fondly meeting His Excellency in July 2015 when we visited Vanuatu after the devastation of Tropical Cyclone Pam," the governor-general said on Saturday.

"He served the people of Vanuatu with dignity and humility, and was much loved."

President Baldwin Lonsdale was elected in September 2014, the first from Torba Province.