Cryptic Oceania Countries

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Across
  1. 3. Of old it's new, Hebrides transit at which Bono's band surrounded. (7)
  2. 8. & $$$$$$$ Weaning a pup stangley with water from France it seems Bougainville will depart.(5,3,6)
  3. 9. See $$$$$$$
  4. 11. See *******
  5. 12. Friend to the French is last to be freed. (5)
  6. 14. & ******** Alone my french is left and suffers initially, yet it sounds smart! (7,7)
  7. 16. In closing remark I rib a timid Gilbert, but not Ellice. (8)
  8. 17. Put back empty gun in to a friendy place. (5)
Down
  1. 1. Uniform vault disturbed by the least amount of people. (6)
  2. 2. A crime's disturbing information on little federation. (10)
  3. 4. Home of bird or fruit's fresh zest and similar (3,7)
  4. 5. Think we'd get to Emerald City as taking a twisting trail up endlessly.(9)
  5. 6. Will american uncle love a place not owned by the US? (5)
  6. 7. Fat crackheads run into gold. (5)
  7. 10. See +++++++
  8. 13. Rugby greats contained if I jinx it! (4)
  9. 15. & +++++++ Oddly learned MSc, following god of war lobby, is sure it's a place for post-war reconstuction plan. (8,7)