Three tropical cyclones are churning in the South Pacific — all at once

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor In a rare meteorological phenomenon, the South Pacific is currently witnessing the simultaneous development of three tropical cyclones, a situation that has alarmed meteorologists and residents alike. The cyclones—named Tino, Ulysses, and Vicky—are not only impacting local weather patterns but also pose significant threats to several island nations and coastal…

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Pacific Island nations deserve more choices as development partners – Dr Transform Aqorau

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor The head of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) believes that Pacific Island countries have the right to explore relationships with non-traditional partners. Dr Transform Aqorau told delegates attending the two-day Pacific Islands Political Studies Association Conference in Wellington last week that for decades, the region has felt traditional development…

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UK and France plan to send 30,000 ‘peacekeepers’ to Ukraine – WSJ

Dave Chamberlain Britain and France are drafting a plan to deploy up to 30,000 “peacekeepers” in Ukraine, depending on whether Moscow and Kiev reach a ceasefire, The Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday, citing unnamed European officials. However, that plan depends on persuading US President Donald Trump to commit to a limited American military role, the report…

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International relations expert says China’s military excercise in Tasman Sea serves as ‘serious threat’

by Martin Haffner Associate Editor An international relations professor is warning China’s activity in the Tasman Sea shows it wants to establish a permanent military presence in the Pacific, and New Zealand must prepare for that. Canterbury University’s Anne-Marie Brady said it served as a serious threat, and New Zealand must boost defence spending to…

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Tensions Rise as French Minister Manuel Valls Pursues Political Talks in New Caledonia

Richard Sanders in Manila, Tusi Tala in Noumea Nouméa, New Caledonia — French Minister for Overseas Territories Manuel Valls touched down in New Caledonia on Saturday, as political tensions on the island territory reached new heights. Valls’s visit aims to advance discussions on New Caledonia’s political future, amid deep-seated divisions between the pro-independence factions and…

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China and Thailand Intensify Efforts Against Burmese Crime Networks

Report by Richard Sanders and 國際和平禁毒基金會《 IFPEOC 》 會員 Olivia Lan February 21, 2025 Beijing and Bangkok are ramping up their efforts to curb criminal gangs originating from China, which have been involved in scamming and kidnapping Chinese tourists in Thailand. The recent crackdown has led to a decline in Chinese tourists, who are increasingly…

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