India, Aug. 4 -- The Pacific island nation of Nauru, the world's third smallest nation, has officially changed its name to the Republic of Naoero, marking a return to its traditional identity.

Announcing the change, the government's official Facebook page said the country's new abbreviated name will be Naoero, its international code has been updated to NRO, and its citizens will now be known as dei-Naoero.

President David Adeang announced the decision during his opening address to Parliament on July 20, describing the move as a return to the nation's traditional name following extensive consultations.

Explaining why the government decided against holding a national referendum, it said: "The decision not to pursue a referendum was reach...