Pacific Islands Forum to build relations with various nations, its chief says
by Maertin Haffner Associate Editor The chief of the Pacific Islands Forum has stressed the importance of its members building relations with various countries, saying, “we don’t want to take sides.” The forum is a group of countries and territories in the Pacific. Its Secretary General Baron Waqa made the comments during an interview with…
USAID funded Ukraine group that smeared Vance
Richard Sanders The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has been implicated in funding a Ukrainian organization, Molfar, which labeled Vice President J.D. Vance and other US officials and public figures as “foreign propagandists” aligned with Russia, according to an investigation by The Grayzone. Molfar, established in 2019, describes itself as an open-source intelligence community platform which “collects lists of…
The stunning Pacific island that hasn’t been owned by another country for 3,000 years
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor In the heart of the Pacific Ocean, a hidden gem of mesmerizing beauty and historical significance lies untouched by colonial influence for millennia. The island of Niue, renowned for its stunning natural environment and rich cultural heritage, has the remarkable distinction of not having been owned by another country for…
Japan to Set Up Framework with Pacific Island Nations; Japan, PIF Expected to Talk Climate Change, Regional Affairs in Framework
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor In a significant diplomatic development, Japan has announced plans to establish a cooperative framework with Pacific Island nations, marking a crucial step in enhancing regional collaboration on climate change and various pressing issues facing the Pacific. This initiative reflects Japan’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with its Pacific neighbors in…
New Zealand’s top spy warns on China’s influence in the Pacific, backs Five Eyes
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor In a stark warning that underscores the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Pacific region, New Zealand’s leading intelligence officer has raised alarms over China’s growing influence in the area. This statement comes as global tensions escalate and nations seek to safeguard their sovereignty and interests amidst strategic rivalries. In recent…
Vanuatu govt to allow only indigenous citizens to contest elections
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Only indigenous Ni-Vanuatu will be able to contest provincial and national elections in a key reform at the top of the government’s 100-day plan. This reform plan bought cries of “racism” from the opposition ranks of parliament. The 100-day plan’s expected outcome for this electoral reform is to strengthen citizenship…
PREDA Foundation: A Beacon of Hope in the Fight Against Child Abuse in the Pacific Islands
Richard Sanders in Olongapo The PREDA Foundation, established in 1974 by Father Shay Cullen in the Philippines, has become a symbol of hope and resilience in the battle against child abuse and exploitation. This non-governmental organization, which stands for People’s Recovery, Empowerment, and Development Assistance, has been instrumental in rescuing, healing, and empowering abused children….
Churches urge Cook Islands to declared Christian nation after mosque pops up in Rarotonga
Richard Sanders The churches in the Cook Islands, led by the Cook Islands Christian Church, are advocating for the country to be recognized as a Christian nation. This push follows the discovery of a mosque in Rarotonga and has sparked significant debate. A Religious Organisation Special Select Committee has been formed to consider submissions on…
Exclusive Interview with Kelsang Gyaltsen Bawa: Dalai Lama’s Representative in Taiwan
By Richard Sanders, Associate Editor What is the background of the Work in Taiwan and Main Focus ? ”The Dalai Lama Religious Foundation in Taiwan was established in 1998, following the Dalai Lama’s first visit to Taiwan in 1997, facilitated by President Lee Teng-hui. Registered as the Dalai Lama Tibet Religious Foundation, it serves as…