tech

Pacific concerns voiced at UNGA

by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer Pacific Island leaders have concluded the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), reiterating the urgent need for global action to address the climate crisis. During the assembly in New York, Tonga’s Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni highlighted the existential threats posed by rising sea levels, which he…

Read More

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)….

Read More

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…

Read More

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,…

Read More

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…

Read More

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….

Read More

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…

Read More

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…

Read More

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…

Read More

Fiji coup leader pardoned

by Tusi Tala, Staff Writer George Speight, the instigator of the 2000 coup in Fiji, along with former soldier Shane Stevens, the leader of the mutineers, has received Presidential pardons. On Thursday, the Fiji Correction Service announced that they were among seven inmates granted pardons by President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, following recommendations from the Mercy…

Read More