by Richard Sanders, Staff Writer Japan’s new prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba, reportedly aims to establish a more “equal” alliance with the United States. Taking office this week, Ishiba is advocating for the presence of Japanese forces in Guam, as stated in a report by the Pacific Island Times. According to the report, Ishiba expressed that…
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…
by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer Children in Vanuatu will soon see themselves represented in literature, with new books likely addressing themes of climate change and natural disasters. A hundred new titles will be crafted by local authors, resulting in over 8,000 copies that will be distributed to children in remote areas. The initiative, named ‘Library…
“The narrative of PINA reflects the evolution of Pacific media over the past 50 years, marking the transition to a more structured media landscape that encompasses various organizations, including radio,” states veteran Tongan journalist Kalafi Moala. Moala, alongside former Australian diplomat and journalist Marsali McKinnon, is co-authoring a book detailing the history of the Pacific…
by TusiTala, Staff Writer The United States has been attentive to the concerns of Pacific Island nations as it aims to enhance its diplomatic presence in the region, according to Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell. Speaking at a media briefing in Nuku’alofa during the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting, Campbell outlined various initiatives…
pictured, Feleti Teo, Tuvalu PM by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer Australia has pledged to support Tuvalu in adapting to climate change through the Falepili Union treaty, according to Tuvalu’s Prime Minister Feleti Teo. The agreement, signed late last year and criticized by a former Tuvalu leader as “shameful,” establishes a special visa pathway for Tuvaluan…
by Richard Sanders, Staff Writer The Pacific Islands, known for their pristine natural beauty and unique ecosystems, are increasingly turning towards sustainable development to preserve their environment and combat the impacts of climate change. One promising avenue for achieving this goal is the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), including EV trucks and vans. In this…
by Richard Sanders, Staff Writer The people of Kiribati have participated in the initial phase of voting today. The Kiribati Electoral Commission, in collaboration with the Ministry for Culture and Internal Affairs, is overseeing the election process. There is limited information available online regarding the elections, with the primary official updates being posted on the…
by Richard Sanders, Staff Writer In the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean lie numerous island nations that face unique challenges due to their small size and isolation. Amidst these challenges, French involvement in the Pacific region has played a significant role in fostering development and bringing about positive change in otherwise economically disadvantaged island…
by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer The recent visit of Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, the Regional Director for the Western Pacific of the World Health Organization, to New Zealand has garnered significant support from local Pacific community leaders. Dr. Piukala, who became the first Pacific Islander to assume this role in January, spoke at the University…