French Polynesia shocked by Chinese missile

by Richard Sanders, Staff Writer Last week’s missile test conducted by China in the Pacific Ocean sent ripples of concern through French Polynesia, though a subsequent event hosted by China appeared to ease local tensions. The ballistic missile reportedly landed about 700 kilometers from the Marquesas Islands, outside of French Polynesia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)….

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Agovaka: Paris Agreement, a failure.

Solomon Islands believes, the Paris Agreement is failing humanity and so the world needs a stronger legally binding framework on Climate Change. The Paris Agreement is an international treaty on Climate Change signed in 2016. The treaty covers climate change mitigation, adaptation and finance. Head of Solomon Islands delegation to the 79th United Nations General…

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Palau speaks at the UN

by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer Palau’s vice president addressed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), stating that the climate crisis is threatening the nation’s food security and economic stability. Uduch Sengebau Senior emphasized that the global response to climate change is critical for survival during her speech at the 79th Session of the UNGA in…

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NZ opposes Chinese missile test

by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer China has launched an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean for the first time in 44 years, sparking concerns among foreign affairs officials and experts. The missile, carrying a dummy warhead, was part of a “routine arrangement” in China’s annual training plan, according to the Chinese defense ministry. However,…

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Airline accused of fat shaming

by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer A Tinian inter-island airline has been accused of discrimination by the US Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) after it sought to have a “weight specific” officer assigned, in line with the aircraft’s weight limitations. Star Marianas, which has been offering complimentary transport for USCBP personnel from Saipan to Rota to…

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Strengthening Global Social Protection: Cambodia’s Success and Lessons for the Future and for the Pacific Islands

written by Samheng Boros  Social protection is the foundation of any nation’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens. It serves as a vital safety net, helping vulnerable populations, supporting economic stability, and ensuring long-term growth. Around the world, countries are refining their approaches to social welfare, tailoring programs to fit their unique needs and challenges….

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Winston Peters heads to French Pacific

by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer New Zealand’s Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, will visit French Polynesia after attending the UN General Assembly in New York. During his trip, he will emphasize New Zealand’s commitment to the international rules-based order and the need for collective solutions to global challenges. After his trip to New York, Peters will…

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Kiwi pilot freed by West Papua rebels

by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer After being held captive in West Papua, Indonesia for over 1.5 years, New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens has been freed and is receiving medical attention. Indonesian President Joko Widodo praised the successful negotiations, which prioritized Mehrtens’ safety. The pilot was picked up by a joint team in Nduga Regency and…

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PNG tribes inspired by Pope, call for peace

by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer Following the visit of Pope Francis, Leaders of rival clans in Papua New Guinea’s Enga province have agreed to peace negotiations following a violent five-day conflict marked by revenge killings. The police reported that 32 people lost their lives, 60 sustained serious injuries, and 59 homes were destroyed. In a…

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