Pacific Islands Forum troika meets in Brisbane
The PIF troika – Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua of Tonga, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele of Solomon Islands and President Surangel Whipps Jr of Palau – met last week in Brisbane. They were joined by the Australian Minister for Climate Change, Chris Bowen to discuss pre-COP events in the Pacific. These are intended to include a meeting of global leaders in the region. However, there is still no information about when this event will take place, where it will be held or who is expected to attend.
Australia and PNG announce a new visa package for Chiefs staff and fans
Australia’s Minister for Home Affairs, Tony Burke, travelled to Port Moresby on Friday of last week. He met with PNG’s Foreign Minister, Justin Tkatchenko, to announce a new visa package for staff and supporters of the PNG Chiefs who will commence playing in the Australian National Rugby League in the 2028 season. Whilst this has been welcomed in some quarters, it is unlikely to be considered sufficient by those who advocate for easier access to Australia for all Pacific people.
Palau Senate blocks move to accept US deportees
In a direct counter to President Surangel Whipps Jr, the Senate of Palau has passed legislation to block a deal to relocate up to 75 deportees from the USA. The Senate met for a rare three-day session to make radical changes to the country’s immigration laws, making the proposed deal unlawful. However, the door is not completely closed as the legislators also passed new laws to allow for a referendum on the issue so the final say will be down to the Palauan people.
Massive drug seizure highlights extent of problem facing Fiji
A massive drug seizure which has led to more than ten arrests throws a spotlight on the extent of the narcotics problem that Fiji faces. More than two tonnes of cocaine was seized by Fijian law enforcement officials in January further to an operation involving international cooperation between Fiji and regional partners. Experts have pointed to the need for innovative and locally led initiatives to counter the increased levels of drug trafficking through the Pacific islands region.
