Home Blog Page 69

Australia panel backs defence pact with PNG, moves to formal alliance

Pita Ligaiula
-
0
Australia panel backs defence pact with PNG, moves to formal alliance

A key committee of the Parliament of Australia has recommended ratifying a new defence treaty with Papua New Guinea, a move that would elevate the relationship to a formal alliance.

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT) tabled its report backing the Papua New Guinea-Australia Mutual Defence Treaty, known as the Pukpuk Treaty, describing it as a major step in strengthening ties between the two countries.

“The Pukpuk Treaty marks a significant achievement in Australia’s relationship with Papua New Guinea. This Treaty ties our two countries closer together and enables enhanced diplomatic and defence coordination and collaboration,” said Committee Chair, Lisa Chesters.

“Papua New Guinea is one of Australia’s most important partners and we are proud to call them our ally,” she said.

Once ratified, the treaty will become Australia’s third formal alliance, following the long-standing ANZUS Treaty signed more than 70 years ago.

The committee said the agreement will deepen defence cooperation, including joint training and skills exchange between the two countries’ militaries.

During its inquiry, the committee heard evidence highlighting mutual benefits such as specialised jungle warfare training and improved interoperability between forces.

The report found the treaty aligns with Australia’s broader strategic focus in the Pacific, particularly in strengthening partnerships, supporting regional stability and reinforcing sovereignty.

If approved, the Pukpuk Treaty is expected to significantly expand defence and security cooperation between Australia and Papua New Guinea, marking a new phase in their bilateral relationship.

Fiji Government sets aside $1.96m for potential evacuation of Fijians in Middle East

Editor
-
0
Fiji Government sets aside $1.96m for potential evacuation of Fijians in Middle East

Fiji Government has approved a contingency fund of $1.96 million(US$869,670) to support the possible evacuation of Fijian nationals from the Middle East as tensions in the region continue.

The decision was endorsed by Cabinet in response to the ongoing 2026 Middle East conflict, with authorities preparing for a worst-case scenario should conditions deteriorate further.

According to Government, there are currently 751 Fijians residing across the Middle East and surrounding regions, including in United Arab Emirates, Qatar, as well as those serving in Fiji’s military deployments in Sinai and the Golan Heights.

Officials have confirmed that all Fijian nationals in these areas have been accounted for and are safe at this stage.

The contingency funding will be used to facilitate evacuation logistics if required, including transport, coordination and emergency support.

Government said it remains committed to safeguarding the well-being of all Fijians abroad and will continue to monitor developments closely.

Climate risks threaten Samoa’s financial stability, UN report warns

Pita Ligaiula
-
0
Climate risks threaten Samoa’s financial stability, UN report warns

United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) has warned that Samoa faces rising threats to its financial system as climate impacts intensify, with risks now spilling over into banks, public finances and the wider economy.

“Samoa faces escalating climate-related risks that threaten macroeconomic stability, fiscal sustainability and the resilience of its financial system,” the report said.

The report makes clear that climate change is no longer a future concern for Samoa, but a current economic risk with direct consequences for financial stability.

“This report examines how physical hazards—such as cyclones, sea-level rise and coastal degradation—and transition risks linked to global decolonisation affect the economy and transmit to the financial sector.”

It says Samoa’s exposure is driven by the structure of its economy, where key sectors such as agriculture, tourism and infrastructure are highly vulnerable to extreme weather and environmental change. These risks are now being passed on to financial institutions through loans, investments and insurance gaps.

“High credit exposure to climate-sensitive sectors, combined with limited insurance coverage and operational vulnerabilities, creates significant financial stability risks.”

The report highlights that many businesses and households remain underinsured, leaving banks exposed when disasters strike. At the same time, financial institutions face operational risks, including disruptions to services and infrastructure during extreme weather events.

Beyond the banking system, the report warns that climate shocks are placing growing pressure on government finances. Disaster recovery costs, reconstruction spending and revenue losses are driving up public debt and limiting fiscal space.

“Climate shocks have also intensified fiscal pressures by driving disaster-related expenditure and increasing public debt, while climate-induced supply disruptions complicate inflation management and weaken monetary policy effectiveness.”

These disruptions are also feeding into inflation, as supply chains are affected and the cost of goods rises, making it harder for authorities to manage prices and maintain economic stability.

A key finding of the report is that Samoa’s financial system is not yet fully prepared to deal with these risks. It points to gaps in governance, technical expertise and regulatory alignment across the sector.

“A sector-wide assessment reveals substantial gaps in climate risk governance, technical capacity and alignment with international disclosure standards across financial institutions.”

This includes limited integration of climate risks into lending decisions, weak reporting frameworks and a lack of consistent standards for assessing exposure.

The report stresses that addressing these challenges will require coordinated action at all levels, bringing together government agencies, regulators, financial institutions and development partners.

“Strengthened resilience will require coordinated action among government agencies, regulators and industry stakeholders, supported by expanded access to climate finance and regional cooperation.”

It also highlights the need for stronger regional collaboration, given the shared vulnerabilities faced by Pacific Island countries and the limited resources available at the national level.

To respond to these risks, the report outlines a forward-looking reform agenda focused on strengthening the financial system’s ability to manage and absorb climate shocks.

“The report outlines a forward-looking agenda to integrate climate risks into supervision, enhance governance, mobilise sustainable finance and strengthen risk-transfer mechanisms.”

This includes embedding climate risk into financial supervision frameworks, improving data and disclosure standards, and developing financial products such as insurance and risk transfer tools to better protect businesses and communities.

The report also calls for increased access to climate finance to support adaptation and resilience-building efforts, noting that small island states like Samoa face significant barriers in securing funding.

At the same time, it underscores the importance of aligning Samoa’s financial system with global trends toward decarbonisation, as transition risks linked to changing international policies and markets could also affect the economy.

Without urgent reforms, Samoa’s financial system will remain exposed to increasingly frequent and severe climate shocks.

But with the right policies, investment and coordination, the report says Samoa can strengthen its resilience and better protect its economy from the growing impacts of climate change.

UN committee urges Marshall Islands and Samoa to address disability rights protections

Editor
-
0
UN committee urges Marshall Islands and Samoa to address disability rights protections

A United Nations (UN) committee has urged the Marshall Islands to address the long-term effects of nuclear testing on people with disabilities.

The UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has issued findings from its latest reviews of Marshall Islands and Samoa among other countries.

The committee noted the continuing effects from the United States nuclear testing programme conducted from 1946 to 1958.

It said the testing had disproportionate intergenerational health impacts on the Marshall Islands’ population

The government has been urged to “act beyond research” and address the long-term effects of testing on people with disabilities.
The committee also noted how legislation that would harmonise the Marshalls’ laws with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities remains stalled.

Regarding Samoa, the Committee noted with concern terminology in Samoa’s constitution and other laws that equate disability with disadvantage or restriction.

The Committee recommended amending the Constitution and other relevant laws to remove derogatory and stigmatising terminology

Samoa is also urged to form a comprehensive legal and policy framework on disability and pass the Disability Bill.

Furthermore, the Committee asked Samoa to systematically involve people with disabilities in disaster risk reduction, climate change and emergency governance frameworks.

Fiji to hold State funeral for former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau

Editor
-
0
Fiji to hold State funeral for former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau

Fiji will honour former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau with a State Funeral following Cabinet approval, recognising his decades of national service.

Ratu Epeli served in several key roles throughout his career, including Speaker of Parliament, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Fiji’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Government Minister, UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador for the Pacific [, and Colonel of the Regiment.

His leadership and contribution to the country have been acknowledged as leaving a lasting legacy.

The Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs will lead funeral arrangements, working with stakeholders and the Vanua to deliver a national farewell.

Cabinet has also directed that the Fiji flag be flown at half-mast from 01 April 2026 until further notice as a mark of respect.

Two condolence books will be opened for members of the public and the diplomatic community to pay their respects.

A condolence book for the Diplomatic Corps will be available at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, while a public condolence book will be placed at the Ministry of Information Media Room at Government Buildings in Suva.

The books will be open from 07 – 17 April between 9am and 4pm.

Members of the public and diplomats are encouraged to sign the condolence books as the country mourns the passing of a former Head of State.

Rising fuel costs bite, Fiji Government plans relief

Editor
-
0
Rising fuel costs bite, Fiji Government plans relief

Fiji Government says it is moving to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices, acknowledging the pressure the increase will place on households and businesses across the country.

“The Fijian Government acknowledges the increase in fuel prices effective from today and recognises the added financial pressure this will place on families, workers, and businesses across the country,” a government statement said.

Officials say the rise will have a direct impact on the cost of living and doing business.

“We understand that higher fuel prices affect the cost of living and the cost of doing business, from transportation to food and everyday goods. Government stands with the people of Fiji during this time and acknowledges the genuine hardship many will face.”

The price adjustment was set by the Fiji Commerce and Consumer Commission, which operates independently of government.

“The fuel price adjustment was determined by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC), which operates as an independent price regulator. This means that the decision on fuel pricing is made outside of Government, based on global fuel market conditions and pricing formulas. We all agree with the global fuel crisis we will expect shocks.”

While distancing itself from the pricing decision, government says it is working on relief measures.

“While Government does not set fuel prices, we are actively working on measures to help cushion the impact of this increase.”

The planned response will focus on key areas of concern.

“These include targeted financial and policy responses aimed at:

• Supporting low-income households
• Assisting businesses facing rising operational costs
• Maintaining stability in key sectors of the economy”

Details of the support package are expected soon.

“Further details on these mitigation measures will be announced soon.”

Government is also urging the public to manage fuel use carefully as global pressures continue.

“Government also encourages all Fijians to continue exercising responsible fuel use and to support efforts that improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary consumption where possible.”

“We remain committed to protecting the welfare of our people and ensuring that, even in the face of global challenges, Fiji remains resilient and supported,” the statement said.

Pacific policing: China becoming the policeman in traditionally U.S-aligned islands

Editor
-
0
Pacific policing: China becoming the policeman in traditionally U.S-aligned islands

By Didi Kirsten Tatlow

China’s growing police presence in the vast Pacific region is reshaping the security landscape in ways that are both troubling and helpful and is part of Beijing’s sweeping vision of global security, according to a new report.

Officers from China’s Ministry of Public Security have been accompanied at joint policing cooperation events in Pacific Island states by people with alleged criminal connections or have engaged in intimidating behavior toward law enforcement advisors from Western countries who are also present on the ground, the report said.

But the small Pacific states were also benefitting from the growing Chinese police presence, especially in short-term ways such as getting new police academies, vehicles, technology, equipment, and uniforms, said the report’s lead author, Virginia Comolli, in an interview with Newsweek. And the states had exercised agency by refusing intrusive measures they did not want, such as fingerprinting or surveillance via CCTV, Comolli said.

The publication on Tuesday of Police Partnerships in the Pacific by the Geneva-based Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime comes against a backdrop of deepening geopolitical competition in the far-flung oceanic territories where the U.S was dominant for decades, having fought its way through the Pacific to defeat Japan in World War II.

But Newsweek has previously reported how China is challenging the U.S by building a complex network of physical and IT infrastructure that is “dual-use”, or mixed civilian and military in nature, expanding its influence in a region with enormous riches and deep strategic significance. Policing is another pillar of this growing footprint.

Chinese diplomats and the foreign ministry say that their outreach in the region is aimed at building friendship and assisting countries with poverty alleviation, agricultural and economic development, and law and order.

A Widespread Chinese Police Presence

China’s Ministry of Public Security’s activities now involve about a dozen countries in the Pacific, with only Taiwan’s three diplomatic allies among the 16-member Pacific Island Forum untouched – Tuvalu, Palau and the Marshall Islands, said Anne-Marie Brady, a professor of Chinese politics at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand who has studied the situation.

In one example cited in the report, by January of this year, about 60 police officers from the Solomon Islands had received training from China’s Ministry of Public Security at a special training centre in Fujian province for police officers from Pacific Island states that is part of the Fujian Police Academy. The centre was opened in Fuzhou, the provincial capital, in 2023.

Extending that, in 2024, an US$11 million, China-built police training academy opened in Samoa. Chinese diplomats present urged it to cooperate with the China-Pacific Island Countries Police Training Centre, describing the Fuzhou centre as the Samoan academy’s “counterpart.”

Special “Chinese Police Liaison Teams” operate across the region, including in Solomon Islands since 2022, where they have run at least 70 training programs, according to the report, which was based on months of on-the-ground reporting.

Solomon Islands is one of China’s closest partners in the region having struck a security agreement – the details have not been made public – with Beijing in 2022 after switching recognition from Taiwan to China in 2019, an act that provoked rioting in the capital, Honiara, in 2021.

Newsweek contacted the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and the Chinese embassy in Honiara for comment.

China is not the only outside country offering policing support to Pacific Island states. In addition to Australia, the main partner, New Zealand is involved with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon signing a policing agreement in mid-March during a trip to Samoa that aims, among other things, to curb the drug trade from Latin America into the region.

Samoa lies just 45 miles away from the U.S territory of American Samoa. In a sign of the enormous scale of the region, Samoa is about 1,900 miles east of the Solomon Islands.

Concerns Over Geocriminality

The report also documented the presence of people with alleged ties to Chinese international crime rings who had participated in police activities in at least two countries, with photographs showing them occupying organisational or prominent roles at a launch event or wearing a police uniform.

That raised troubling questions, said Martin Thorley, Comolli’s co-author and a specialist in geocriminality, which is when states use organised crime to further domestic or foreign policy priorities.

“We’re currently at the stage where everyone is assessing what this increased Chinese presence in police cooperation and training means, and what the risks are and what the opportunities are, and it seems no one has considered that … alleged criminals are accepted at the periphery of this policing. They appear to be allowed in,” said Thorley in an interview.

Thorley said that Beijing had a track record of allowing allegedly criminal participation when it served the CCP state’s aims.

There were differences between cooperating with China’s Ministry of Public Security and with the police forces in democratic nations, said Brady.

China’s police – the Ministry of Public Security – was also China’s central authority responsible for counter-intelligence, dissident-suppression and counter-terrorism, with an external role to hunt opponents of the CCP as well as immigration and other duties, Brady said.

“So, if you’ve got Chinese police embedded in your country, you’ve got spies,” Brady said.

Brady cited a 2025 report on Samoa published by a Czech Republic-based research organisation, Sinopsis, which found that police cooperation had become “a central pillar of China’s expanding dual use presence in the Pacific,” with Beijing aiming to set up a cross-Pacific policing network in parallel to the existing order. Many interactions remained unpublicised, according to the report, where Brady was a co-author.

Efforts to contact the Ministry of Public Security in Beijing by telephone, through a number listed on the ministry’s website, failed, with the number apparently not operational.

Pacific states have agency

Like Comolli, Brady said that Pacific Island states, though small and in need of a variety of law-and-order support, were exercising agency to push back against China’s expanding police presence, albeit unevenly, and that there was a real need on the ground for assistance.

But across the region, she said, “the weakest links are the Solomons, Kiribati and Vanuatu. All the others have understood you can’t go too far with this.’

Newsweek contacted the Vanuatu government for comment. An email to Kiribati’s Ministry of Justice bounced back.

China’s efforts were bumping up established partners such as Australia, sometimes in tense ways, according to Comolli’s report.

“Interviews conducted for this report include accounts that Chinese Police Liaison Team personnel have, in some instances, sought to discourage or intimidate law enforcement advisers from other 4 countries from operating in the same environment,” the report said.

“While such behaviour is not uniform, it signals a willingness in certain contexts to compete directly at the operational level, rather than simply coexisting alongside traditional partners,” it said.

Senirusi Seruvakula steps in as Acting Coach as Fiji Rugby parts ways with Byrne

Pita Ligaiula
-
0
Senirusi Seruvakula steps in as Acting Coach as Fiji Rugby parts ways with Byrne

Fiji Rugby Union has appointed Senirusi Seruvakula as Acting Head Coach of the Flying Fijians following the immediate departure of Mick Byrne.

Seruvakula, a seasoned figure in Fijian rugby, takes over the national side with a strong track record at both domestic and international level. His appointment signals continuity, having been part of recent successes for Fiji on the global stage.

He was a member of the coaching team that guided Fiji to historic wins over England at Twickenham and Australia at the last Rugby World Cup. He also led the Fijiana 15s to their first-ever Rugby World Cup qualification and coached Fiji to victory over the Barbarians to win the Kilik Cup in 2019.

At club level, Seruvakula coached the Fiji Drua to the 2018 National Rugby Championship title, further cementing his reputation as one of the country’s top rugby minds.

The coaching change comes after FRU confirmed Byrne’s departure by mutual agreement.

“Following discussions about the future direction of the Flying Fijian program, both parties concluded that it is in the best interests of Fiji Rugby to part ways,” the union said.

FRU Chief Executive Koli Sewabu acknowledged Byrne’s contribution.

“Mick has been fully committed to his role and remains dedicated to the players and staff,” Sewabu said.

“Out of respect for the team and to ensure the programme can continue to the new direction that Fiji Rugby has set for the future, Mick and Fiji Rugby has agreed to part ways so FRU can move forward.”

The union thanked Byrne for his service, highlighting his role in building the current squad and strengthening the national programme.

“We acknowledge the foundation he has helped build. Under his guidance, from the Fijian Drua to the Flying Fijians, we have seen growth, resilience, and a commitment to the white jersey that will serve us well moving forward. These are not simply moments in a season, but pillars for our future success,” said Sewabu.

Byrne said coaching Fiji had been a privilege.

“It has been an honour to work with the Flying Fijians players and staff. And before that the Drua players and staff. I have been overwhelmed by the support of ‘the world’s best’ Fiji fans during my 5-year involvement— their warmth and welcome have meant a great deal to me. I remain fully committed to the game and wish Fiji Rugby every success moving forward,” Byrne said.

FRU said interim coaching arrangements are now in place, with Seruvakula leading the team while the process to appoint a permanent head coach gets underway.

Pacific financial system under threat as banking links shrink, Forum report warns

Pita Ligaiula
-
0
Pacific financial system under threat as banking links shrink, Forum report warns

The Pacific’s access to global finance is under growing strain, with a new Pacific Islands Forum report warning that the steady loss of correspondent banking relationships is pushing the region toward a critical tipping point.

The ‘2025 Annual Report on the Pacific Strengthening Correspondent Banking Relationships Project’ paints a grim picture of a system under pressure, with the number of active correspondent banks servicing Pacific institutions falling sharply over the past decade.

“The withdrawal of Correspondent Banking relationships (CBRs), a well-documented global phenomenon affecting many emerging markets and developing economies, has adverse consequences and negative externalities for Pacific Islanders, including seasonal workers, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and vulnerable populations.”

“Based on publicly available data, the number of active correspondents for Pacific banks has declined significantly since 2011 to unsustainably low levels that put the whole Pacific financial system at risk,” the report said.

For Pacific Island countries, the stakes are high. These banking relationships underpin almost every aspect of economic activity, from trade and tourism to remittances and humanitarian assistance.

“Pacific Island Countries (PICs) are uniquely vulnerable to the withdrawal of the CBRs that underpin international trade, tourism, remittances, and humanitarian financial flows”.

The report makes clear that the issue is not abstract. Reduced access to correspondent banking services can lead to higher transaction costs, disrupted payment systems and limited financial access for communities already facing geographic and economic challenges.

In response, the Forum, working closely with the World Bank and regional partners, has launched a coordinated effort to stabilise and strengthen these critical financial links.

“In response to these risks, the Pacific Strengthening Correspondent Banking Relationships Project was developed as a coordinated regional initiative aimed at safeguarding continued access to international financial services.”

The project, valued at US$68 million and running through to 2030, currently covers Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, Kiribati, Tuvalu and the Republic of the Marshall Islands, with other countries expected to join.

The 2025 report outlines progress made during the first year of implementation, despite a late project start in April. Much of the year focused on setting up the Project Management Unit and building the foundation for delivery.

Under its first key component ensuring continued access to correspondent banking services- work is underway to secure a service provider that can offer temporary access to banking links for countries at risk of losing them.

A formal request for expressions of interest has already been completed, with four financial institutions responding and three progressing to the next stage of negotiations. Final contracting is expected by mid-2026.

At the same time, the project is moving to address deeper structural issues through its second component-improving the regulatory and institutional environment across the region.

Efforts in 2025 included launching data collection pilots in Fiji, Samoa, Tonga and the Marshall Islands to support the development of a CBR Resilience Index, a tool that will assess financial institutions’ eligibility for support and track system stability.

The report also highlights progress in strengthening anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing frameworks, with draft action plans developed for participating countries in collaboration with regional and international partners.

These plans identify key gaps in legal, regulatory and supervisory systems and will guide targeted technical assistance in the years ahead.

Beyond regulation, the project is also looking at modernising payment systems across the Pacific.

A regional workshop held in Nadi in December brought together central banks, regulators and development partners to advance work on faster, more efficient payment systems tailored to small island economies.

Work is also progressing on a feasibility study for a Pacific Payments Mechanism, aimed at improving cross-border payment efficiency and reducing costs through greater regional integration.

Despite these steps forward, the report acknowledges that progress in 2025 was limited by the short implementation window, with many targets yet to be met.

Still, Forum officials say the groundwork laid during the year is critical to long-term success and to protecting the region’s financial connectivity.

“This report details the project’s progress for the year 2025, highlighting key achievements, challenges encountered, and strategic adjustments made to strengthen the resilience of correspondent banking relationships across Pacific Island Countries.”

Without sustained action, the decline in correspondent banking relationships could further isolate Pacific economies from global markets.

But with coordinated regional effort now underway, the Forum and its partners are betting that the Pacific can stabilise its financial links and build a more resilient system for the future.

Forum SG Waqa pushes truth and accountability on nuclear legacy

Pita Ligaiula
-
0
Forum SG Waqa pushes truth and accountability on nuclear legacy

Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa says remembrance of nuclear testing in the Pacific must drive action, as the region continues to deal with its lasting impacts.

Speaking at the Marshall Islands Nuclear Victims Remembrance Day commemoration in Suva under the theme ‘Ain Jitbon Mar: Spiritual Calling from Our Islands,’ Waqa said the theme reflects deep cultural ties and the ongoing fight for justice.”

“Although this day is observed in the Marshall Islands each year on 01 March, your commitment and leadership, including from the Marshall Islands Students Association to this annual event held here at the University of the South Pacific demonstrates something powerful: remembrance is shared across our Blue Pacific, across our communities, and across generations.

“This year’s theme speaks to the deep cultural and spiritual ties we hold with our islands and oceans. It is a call to honour the voices of survivors whose courage continues to guide our region’s pursuit of truth, justice, action and peace,” Waqa said.

He reminded the gathering that the scale of nuclear testing in the region continues to affect lives.

“As you all know, more than 300 nuclear tests were conducted across the Pacific. Their impacts, on the Marshall Islands, French Polynesia, Kiribati and others, remain with us today. These are not distant historical events; they are lived realities that continue to shape families, ecosystems, and identities today.”

Waqa said the Forum is backing efforts to establish the facts, including an independent study on contamination.

“This is why the Forum is supporting efforts, such as the upcoming preliminary independent study on nuclear contamination across the Pacific, including at the Runit Dome site, to ensure that our region has credible, science-based assessments of environmental and human health risks that continue to affect our people every day.”

“This work is essential to strengthening regional advocacy, informing global discussions, and ensuring that Pacific peoples have access to the truth. It also reinforces a core principle: that those affected deserve transparency, accountability, and meaningful action,” he stressed.

He highlighted the long-standing regional commitments to a nuclear-free Pacific.

“Our Forum Leaders have long championed a nuclear-free region through the Rarotonga Treaty, reaffirmed in our Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace Declaration. This time last year, we welcomed Marshall Islands signing the Rarotonga Treaty, an important moment of profound regional significance.”

Waqa said global developments make Pacific advocacy more urgent, with the upcoming Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons review conference a key platform.

“As global nuclear tensions rise, the Pacific’s voice is more important than ever. The upcoming 11th Review Conference of the State Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, also known as the NPT, in April will be another critical opportunity to ensure that the lived realities of Pacific peoples remain central to global disarmament and justice efforts.”

Reflecting on the annual event, he acknowledged those keeping the issue alive.

“Since the beginning of my tenure as Secretary General, I have been deeply privileged to support this annual commemoration here at USP. And each year, I am moved by an ever-deepening sense of humility and reflection.”

“I want to acknowledge the Marshall Islands Students Association. Since 2019, your leadership in spearheading this annual event has ensured that this story is kept alive, bringing communities together, and elevating survivors’ voices.”

“Your work shows that remembrance is not only about history, but also about empowering the next generation to safeguard our future,” SG Waqa said.

He said the commemoration reflects regional unity and shared responsibility.

“Today’s gathering embodies the unity and shared stewardship that define our region. Through collective commitment, we honour those affected and strengthen our resolve to protect our islands and our people.”

“As we mark this solemn day, let us recommit to standing with survivors, elevating their stories, and ensuring transparency and accountability. Let us continue to build a peaceful, secure, and resilient Blue Pacific where nuclear harm has no place.”

“Alongside our Leaders, I renew my full commitment to supporting all efforts to ensure that nuclear testing never happens again in our beautiful and bountiful Pacific,” said SG Waqa.

1...686970...1,246Page 69 of 1,246

Stay connected

529FansLike
172FollowersFollow
156SubscribersSubscribe
- Advertisement -