PINA

By Nic Maclellan As the oceans face devastating change from climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, Pacific governments are preparing for the Third United Nations Ocean Conference, to be held in France in June 2025. Speaking on the sidelines of last week’s Pacific Islands Forum in Tonga, Prime Minister of Tuvalu Feleti Teo spoke of the importance of the oceans’ agenda...

Manu Samoa got their Pacific Nations Cup campaign back on track in Apia this evening as they defeated Tonga 43-17. The win shot the Samoans back into contention for a top two finish from the Pacific pool. Samoa extended their 44-year unbeaten home record against Tonga in Apia to 20 matches with a 43-17 win that keeps their hopes of a...

Fiji’s Young Kulas kicked off their first ever World Cup with a 9-0 defeat to 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup bronze medalists Brazil in Colombia. Lining up in a 4-3-3, head coach Angelina Chua started with Aliana Vakaloloma in goal, a back four of Seruwaia Laulaba, Talei Moodie, Sonia Alfred and Angeline Rekha; midfueld of Carolone Qalivere, Kasanita Tabua...

Fiji’s Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr Sivendra Michael, has called for a fundamental shift in how climate finance is accessed by Pacific nations, arguing that current international models are failing the region. Speaking at the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF) side event on Thursday, Dr Michael emphasied the need for direct and simplified access to climate funding to...

Tonga’s Finance Minister, Tiofilusi Tiueti, has urged Pacific nations and their partners to rally behind the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF), calling it a “bold step” towards a more resilient and sustainable future for the region. Speaking at the PRF side event during the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Nuku’alofa on Thursday, Tiueti expressed gratitude for Tonga being selected as...

Tuvalu’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Paulson Panapa, has called for urgent investment and action to launch the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF), highlighting the existential threat climate change poses to Pacific nations like Tuvalu. “It’s my pleasure to bring Tuvalu’s voice to this special PRF side event. “We fully align with the decision to headquarter the PRF in Tonga and congratulate the...

Pacific Island leaders wrapped up the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum in Tonga, reinforcing their commitment to regional cooperation, climate resilience, and sustainable development. The week-long Forum brought together leaders from 18 member countries and territories, who addressed the region’s most pressing challenges, from climate change and healthcare vulnerabilities to education and regional security. Recognising the existential threat posed by climate change,...

With the decision to host the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF) in Tonga now confirmed, PRF Manager, Finau Soqo has announced the next steps toward its establishment, emphasing a focus on community-driven solutions and streamlined processes to meet urgent regional needs. “Now that the leaders have made the decision on the domicile of PRF, next week we commence the process of...

Tongan Minister for Trade, Dr Viliami Uasike Latu, has called for a strategic and sustainable approach to developing the kava industry, emphasising its cultural significance and economic potential at the launch of the Regional Kava Development Strategy (RKDS) this week. “This strategy is more than just a document; it is a collective vision, a roadmap that reflects our shared commitment...

The European Union (EU) is keen to support the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF), but challenges with the current structure could complicate its involvement, according to Jutta Urpilainen, EU Commissioner for International Partnerships. Speaking about the EU's potential contribution to the PRF, Urpilainen acknowledged the need for more flexibility in the facility's design. “We are exploring opportunities to contribute, but the current...