In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — PNG among 12 countries hit by new U.S visa bond rule
2. COOKS/NZ — Cook Islands PM Brown reaffirms relationship with NZ
3. AUST/PNG — Additional support for Papua New Guinea’s plan to protect children from polio
4. VAN — China gives VT4.5m to address Ambae volcano impacts
5. UN — Middle East war shockwaves ripple through Asia-Pacific fuel and supply chains
6. UN — Middle East war: ‘Force of the law’ must prevail over the law of force, urges Guterres
7. VAN — 231 leaders in Vanuatu fail to submit annual returns
8. PACNEWS BIZ — Marshall Islands government slashes income tax as living costs skyrocket
9. PACNEWS BIZ — Private sector in Fiji calls for inclusion in national fuel measures
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji PM Rabuka commends farmers and the private sector
11. PACNEWS DIGEST — Co‑designing inclusive meteorological services to reach the last mile
12. PACNEWS IN FOCUS — The wins and woes of Luxon’s Pacific visit
13. PACNEWS IN FOCUS — 1 year after Papua New Guinea declared itself Christian, bishops say little has changed
PAC – DIPLOMACY/VISA: PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Fri 20 Mar 2026
PNG among 12 countries hit by new U.S visa bond rule
WASHINGTON, 20 MARCH 2026 (PACNEWS) — The United States State Department is expanding its visa bond programme to 50 countries, including Papua New Guinea, requiring some travelers to pay up to US$15,000 before receiving short-term visas.
The new measure will take effect on 02 April, applying to B1 and B2 visas for business and tourism.
“The State Department is expanding its visa bond programme to apply to a total of 50 countries on 02 April and will require foreign nationals from these countries to post a bond of up to US$15,000 before receiving B1 or B2 visas for business and tourism in the United States.”
Under the policy, the bond will be refunded if travelers comply with visa conditions and leave the country on time.
“The bond will be returned to visa recipients who return home in compliance with the terms of the visa and the bond or does not travel.”
The State Department said the programme is aimed at reducing visa overstays.
“Nearly 1,000 foreigners have been issued visas under the programme, and 97 percent of bonded travelers have returned home from the United States on time.”
Officials said overstays remain a concern, citing tens of thousands of cases in previous years.
“By contrast, in Biden’s last year in office, more than 44,000 visitors from the 50 current Visa Bonds countries overstayed.”
The expansion adds 12 new countries, including Papua New Guinea, bringing the total to 50 nations subject to the requirement.
“The State Department’s 02 April action will apply the visa bond policy to 12 additional nations.”
The programme allows consular officers to determine the bond amount, which can range from US$5,000 to US$15,000 depending on the applicant’s risk profile.
The State Department in a statement said the policy also reduces costs for U.S taxpayers.
“It costs the U.S taxpayer over US$18,000 on average to remove an alien illegally present in the United States.”
“The Department of State is saving U.S taxpayers up to US$800 million per year that would otherwise be required to remove these aliens who overstay.”
Officials say the list of countries could be expanded further.
“The Department may continue to place Visa Bonds on countries based on a range of immigration risk factors.”
Countries newly added to the programme include Cambodia, Ethiopia, Georgia, Grenada, Lesotho, Mauritius, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles and Tunisia.
The visa bond system is part of broader U.S efforts to tighten immigration controls and improve compliance with visa conditions…. PACNEWS
COOK/SNZ – DIPLOMACY: COOK ISLANDS NEWS PACNEWS 3: Fri 20 Mar 2026
Cook Islands PM Brown reaffirms relationship with NZ
WELLINGTON, 20 MARCH 2026 (COOK ISLANDS NEWS) — Prime Minister Mark Brown has reaffirmed that the Cook Islands’ relationship with Aotearoa New Zealand ‘remains enduring, grounded in shared history, values, and mutual benefit.’
Brown, who is currently in New Zealand, reiterated that the central purpose of his visit is to reconnect with Cook Islanders abroad and strengthen the enduring ‘relationship with New Zealand.
This is the Prime Minister’s first major visit with the government delegation, including the new secretary for Foreign Affairs, Elizabeth Wright-Koteka, since the diplomatic fallout between the two countries.
Speaking in Wellington on Tuesday, Brown said, “This is a relationship we value deeply. It is one we have freely chosen, and one we remain committed to strengthening.”
He acknowledged that, like any long-standing relationship, there are moments that require reflection, and stressed that current engagements focus on ensuring the relationship continues to evolve in a way that reflects the maturity and aspirations of both countries.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister outlined a forward-focused agenda centred on economic resilience, diversification, and responsible development.
Details on whether PM Brown would meet with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and/or Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters during the visit are unclear.
In a previous article, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) stated, “The Cook Islands has consistently sought constructive engagement with New Zealand at all levels. Officials remain in regular contact, and we welcome opportunities for dialogue. As with all partners, discussions often take place privately.”
NZ PM Luxon was in Samoa this week and indicated he ‘won’t be’ meeting PM Brown.
“Obviously, I am travelling, but we’ve got ongoing conversations with the Cook Islands, and we’re hoping we can get those results at some point,” Luxon had said.
Diplomatic tensions began in late 2024 and became public after the Cook Islands signed a comprehensive strategic partnership and other agreements with China in February last year.
New Zealand cited a lack of consultation regarding the deals with China and subsequently suspended NZ$29.8 million (US$17.55 million) in funding.
Meanwhile, in Wellington, speaking to key stakeholders, partners, and members of the Cook Islands community in Aotearoa New Zealand, Prime Minister Brown said, “This moment is about reflecting on how far we have come, and being clear about where we are going.”
The OPM, in a statement, said, anchored in the national theme Kua kite au i toku turanga, e Avaiki toku, the Prime Minister’s address focused on identity, unity, and the shared responsibility of shaping the country’s future.
He emphasised that culture and faith remain the foundation of Cook Islands leadership and development, guiding decision-making and strengthening resilience in a changing global environment.
“Our culture is not something we leave behind. It is what carries us forward,” Brown said.
A key focus of the address was the role of the Cook Islands diaspora, particularly the more than 90,000 Cook Islanders living in New Zealand.
The Prime Minister highlighted their contribution to both countries and reinforced their place at the centre of the nation’s future.
“When our people move abroad, our nation does not diminish. It grows,” he said.
He also spoke about the Cook Islands’ journey since 1965, from a small island state to a large oceanic state with an increasing global presence, underpinned by strong governance, international partnerships, and sustained economic progress.
He pointed to major national milestones, including the establishment of maritime boundaries, leadership in ocean stewardship, and the country’s graduation to high-income status in 2020, as evidence of a nation that has taken control of its own path.
He outlined a forward-focused agenda centred on economic resilience, diversification, and responsible development.
Brown has called for continued unity across the global Cook Islands community, encouraging all Cook Islanders to remain connected and engaged as the country moves into its next phase.
“The next chapter of our story will be written by all of us, at home and abroad,” he said.
“Let us go forward together with confidence, grounded in who we are, and clear in where we are heading,” he said.
Meanwhile, Cook Islands PM Mark Brown and New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters held an informal discussion at Peters’ private residence in Auckland on Friday.
Winston Peters has met “informally” with Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown at Peters’ home in Auckland.
In a joint statement, they said they discussed “fundamental challenges facing the New Zealand-Cook Islands relationship over the past 18 months” though there appeared to be no resolutions.
“Political dialogue between the two countries will continue in the coming weeks in order to determine whether these challenges can be resolved in the present circumstances,” it stated.
“In the meantime, the Governments of the Cook Islands and New Zealand will not be providing further comment.” … PACNEWS
PNG/AUST – HEALTH: AUST GOVT PACNEWS 3: Fri 20 Mar 2026
Additional support for Papua New Guinea’s plan to protect children from polio
CANBERRA, 20 MARCH 2026 (AUST GOVT) — The Albanese Government will provide an additional $2 million (US$1.41 million) to support Papua New Guinea’s efforts to increase polio vaccination rates and support a healthy region.
This raises Australia’s contribution to Papua New Guinea’s fight against the recent polio outbreak to $7 million (US$4.96 million).
In 2025 an estimated three million children in Papua New Guinea received polio vaccinations and other routine childhood immunisations against diseases such as measles, thanks to a $5 million (US$3.54 million) investment by the Albanese Government.
This additional investment, delivered via the World Health Organisation, will target children under five in high-risk provinces and strengthen disease surveillance to reduce the risk of future outbreaks.
Our contribution will also support a revised National Immunisation Strategy to help address persistently low vaccination coverage in Papua New Guinea.
Pat Conroy, Minister for Pacific Island Affairs said: “Australia is proud to be working closely with the Government of PNG to help protect children against polio. “This investment is part of our commitment to working in partnership with our friends Papua New Guinea, towards a polio free PNG and a healthy region.”
Dr Anne Aly, Minister for International Development said: “Every child deserves the protection that vaccination provides.
“This additional investment reflects Australia’s commitment to working alongside Papua New Guinea to respond to the current outbreak, strengthen immunisation efforts, and support a healthy and resilient region, which is important to Australia…. PACNEWS
VAN – AID: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS 3: Fri 20 Mar 2026
China gives VT4.5m to address Ambae volcano impacts
PORT VILA, 20 MARCH 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST) — China has donated VT4.5 million (US$37,728) to help address the impact of the Ambae volcano, which has been affecting communities since its increased activity last month.
The Members of Parliament for Ambae, John Still Tari Qetu, Jay Ngwele, and Jean Jacques Ngwele received the donation from the Chinese Ambassador to Vanuatu, Li Minggang, this week.
Ambassador Li, who considers himself as a friend to the people of Ambae, said he is worried about them because of the current situation. He said the ongoing impact of volcanic ash, gas, and shortages of food and water prompted him to mobilise support.
He recalled meeting chiefs, community leaders, and families during his first visit to Ambae last year.
“It was a short visit but always in my heart. In the past weeks, they are suffering from the impacts of the volcano on their food and water. Therefore, I have been thinking that I must do something. I decided to mobilize a budget of support and today I am glad to handover this and I hope it will be sent to the people as soon as possible,” said the Ambassador.
Apart from the financial assistance, the Chinese Ambassador confirmed that 1,500 cartons of bottled water and 1,500 bags of rice will also be distributed to affected communities.
Speaking on behalf of the Ambae MPs, Deputy Opposition Leader Jay Ngwele acknowledged the strong relationship between China and Vanuatu.
He expressed gratitude for the continued support during times of disaster, including the 2017-2018 evacuations.
He recalled families being evacuated to nearby islands, such as Maewo, Pentecost, Santo and Malekula.
“In 2019, our people started to return home but it was very hard to restart life. Many bought land to settle in Santo. We are grateful that we have countries, friends, and brothers who are willing to help us,” he said.
MP Qetu who is also the Minister of Health, thanked the government and people of China for their assistance, reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring that relief supplies reach affected communities.
Each of the three Ambae MPs will receive 500 cartons of water and 500 bags of rice to distribute to affected people in their constituencies.
The donation follows an earlier allocation of VT20 million by the Vanuatu Government, with reports confirming that water has already been distributed to affected areas in south and west Ambae…. PACNEWS
UN – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: UN NEWS CENTRE PACNEWS 3: Fri 20 Mar 2026
Middle East war shockwaves ripple through Asia-Pacific fuel and supply chains
BANGKOK, 20 MARCH 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) — The fallout from the war in the Middle East is rippling far beyond the Gulf, disrupting fuel supplies, shipping routes and supply chains across Asia and the Pacific, with some of the region’s most vulnerable economies already feeling the strain through rising prices, rationing and threats to jobs, food security and remittances.
The immediate impact is visible in sharp increases in transport costs, energy and fertilizer prices, alongside currency pressures and financial market volatility.
“The most immediate economic impact…are considerable increases in freight costs and oil, gas and fertilizer prices,” Hamza Ali Malik, Director of Macroeconomic Policy Division at the UN’s Asia-Pacific development arm (ESCAP) told UN News.
He warned that higher inflation, weaker exports and rising debt risks are likely to follow.
At the centre of the disruption is the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints.
The narrow passage carries around a quarter of global seaborne oil trade, along with significant volumes of liquefied natural gas and fertilizers. Escalating hostilities have brought ship transits close to a halt, triggering immediate reactions in global energy markets.
Volatile Brent Crude oil prices have surged well above US$100 per barrel, while higher transport and insurance costs are adding to the strain.
These shocks are reverberating across supply chains and raising concerns not only for trade and development, but also for the delivery of humanitarian assistance and essential goods.
The impact is being felt across all sea routes, with major shipping companies suspending services to the Middle East and containers stranded in congested ports. At least 20,000 seafarers in the region are also affected.
“There are significant early signs of disruption to shipping routes,” said Rupa Chanda, Director of Trade Division at ESCAP, adding that the effects are already hitting key industries.
Shortages of helium and specialised gases from the Gulf are creating a “near-immediate crisis” for semiconductor and advanced electronics production, while disruptions to petrochemical feedstocks threaten manufacturing across major Asian economies.
Fertiliser shortages are also raising concerns about future crop yields across South Asia – home to nearly two billion people – and beyond.
Energy price spikes are feeding directly into inflation and the cost of living.
UN estimates indicate oil prices have risen by around 45 per cent and gas by 55 percent since late February, with fertiliser prices up 35 percent. Regional inflation could rise to 4.6 percent in 2026, up from 3.5 percent in 2025.
In several countries, higher fuel prices are already pushing up transport, production and food costs, hitting poorer households hardest.
In Sri Lanka, where petroleum accounts for about a quarter of total imports, authorities have introduced fuel rationing and cut back public events to conserve supplies. Schools have shifted to a four-day week, while public sector operations have been scaled down.
In Pakistan, fuel and grocery prices surged overnight, and long queues reported at petrol stations. Authorities have introduced fuel conservation measures, including a four-day work week, school closures and work-from-home policies.
Crisis-struck Myanmar is also facing acute pressures. Fuel shortages have led to strict rationing, disrupting transport, businesses and humanitarian operations.
“These disruptions are adding new strain to an economy in Myanmar that was already under pressure,” said Gwyn Lewis, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator ad interim. “Prices are rising, essential goods are harder to find, and families’ purchasing power continues to fall.”
In Nepal, the crisis is being felt not only in economic terms, but in daily life. At least one migrant worker has been killed in the Gulf, dozens injured, and tens of thousands stranded – unable to return home or travel to places of work.
More than 1.7 million Nepali migrants work in the Gulf, accounting for over 65 per cent of overseas labour migration. Remittances – much of them from the Gulf – make up more than a quarter of Nepal’s GDP and support nearly 6 in 10 households.
“This is not a distant crisis for Nepal. It’s very near and very personal,” said Numan Özcan of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
The scale of the impact varies, but if the crisis persists, the consequences will be severe.
ESCAP warns growth across developing Asia-Pacific economies could slow to around 4.0 percent in 2026, down from 4.6 percent in 2025. Poverty, food insecurity and inequality could worsen, alongside job losses and possible displacement of migrant workers.
To mitigate the impact, ESCAP calls for coordinated policy action, including targeted fiscal support, cash transfers and support for small businesses.
Countries may also need to tighten monetary policy to manage inflation and financial stability risks, while longer-term efforts should focus on diversifying energy sources, trade routes and supply chains.
But beyond the economic fallout, the deeper concern is the human toll – as global shocks are increasingly felt in homes and villages.
“As the crisis continues, the main risk is that an external economic shock becomes a household crisis,” said ILO’s Numan Özcan…. PACNEWS
UN – IRAN CRISIS: UN NEWS CENTRE PACNEWS 3: Fri 20 Mar 2026
Middle East war: ‘Force of the law’ must prevail over the law of force, urges Guterres
BRUSSELS, 20 MARCH 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) — The U.S and Israel must end their bombing campaign before it spirals out of control, while Iran needs to stop attacking Gulf neighbours who have played no direct part in the war roiling the Middle East and beyond, the UN Secretary-General urged on Thursday.
António Guterres was speaking to reporters outside the European Council in Brussels, where he briefed regional leaders on the importance of continuing multilateral cooperation between the EU and UN.
He said the United States and Israel need to end their assault on Iran before it spirals “completely out of control”, leading to more civilian suffering, especially in least developed nations where the consequences of rising energy prices and supply chain bottlenecks could have “tragic consequences.”
Attacks in recent days by Israel and Iran on natural gas fields and other energy infrastructure in the Gulf have seen prices rise sharply for consumers, while multiple countries have called on Tehran to stop attacks and threats to shipping in the vital Strait of Hormuz off the Iranian coast.
Guterres urged Iran: “Stop attacking your neighbours; they were never parties to the conflict. The Security Council has condemned these attacks,” and has also ordered the reopening of the Strait.
“The prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz causes enormous pain in so many people around the world that have nothing to do with this conflict,” the UN chief continued.
“It’s time for the force of the law to prevail over the law of force. It’s time for diplomacy to prevail over war,” he said…. PACNEWS
VAN – POLITICS: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS 3: Fri 20 Mar 2026
231 leaders in Vanuatu fail to submit annual returns
PORT VILA, 20 MARCH 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST) — Two hundred and thirty-one leaders have failed to submit their annual returns for last year, while 578 have already filed.
A list of those who failed to file has been published in the official gazette last week. It includes political advisors, board members of state-owned enterprises and service commissioners, heads of government departments and agencies, municipal and provincial councillors including Members of Parliament.
Individuals classified as leaders under Article 67 of the Constitution and Section 5 of the Leadership Code Act are required to submit annual returns by 01 March each year. Those who miss the deadline have an extra 14 days to file, until 14 March. Failure to do so is considered a breach.
In the past, leaders have been taken to court for not filing their annual returns or for providing false information.
Ombudsman Hamlison Bulu said that most leaders who complied with the annual return required based in Port Vila, Luganville and provincial headquarters. Only a small number in PENAMA Province complied.
Bulu acknowledged the challenges his office faces in tracking leaders.
“Some leaders are in Port Vila, Santo, and other known locations, but for others, we do not know their addresses. There is no central registry, such as through the Public Service Commission or another employment agency. Budget is also a challenge, as officers cannot travel to every island to locate leaders,” he said.
Despite the deadline passing, he urged leaders to come forward and provide their returns.
“The time for filing is over, but it is still important that leaders present their reports. The law requires all leaders to comply, and it is best to come forward,” he said.
He explained that the Ombudsman’s Office will now prioritise addressing those named in the gazette list. The office will assess annual returns, verify the information, and decide whether investigations are required.
“We look through the information provided, checking whether it is true or false, and also review those who did not file or filed late,” Bulu said.
“As soon as the gazette is published, we have a limited period—just one year—to assess and, if necessary, prosecute leaders. Investigations must be registered before the first of March next year,” he said.
Bulu reminded leaders at all levels, from the very top to the lowest in the leadership structure, that there is no reason to fear the office. However, he warned that failure to comply could reflect badly on them.
“When we follow up and find that you were in a leadership position but did not follow the law, it will reflect poorly,” he added…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
MARSH – COST OF LIVING: MARSHALL ISLANDS JOURNAL/RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 20 Mar 2026
Marshall Islands government slashes income tax as living costs skyrocket
MAJURO, 20 MARCH 2026 (MARSHALL ISLANDS JOURNAL/RNZ PACIFIC) — The Marshall Islands parliament this week endorsed legislation reducing income taxes for all working people in the country in a move to mitigate to some degree the soaring costs of living.
Bill 103, introduced by Finance Minister David Paul earlier this week, exempts the first US$8320 in a person’s salary from withholding tax. This means that for people earning this amount or more, they will have over US$600 more net income on an annual basis.
“This is a monumental day for the people of the Marshall Islands,” Paul told the Marshall Islands Journal in an interview after the legislation was passed.
He said the new law “will provide some relief to people” in view of the escalating costs of fuel that are affecting every part of life in the Marshall Islands.
The bill was introduced on the last day of parliament meetings for the current session and passed on the same day in order to trigger a fast response to skyrocketing costs.
The new law will be implemented in April, reducing the income tax burden on working people.
Paul said this would result in about US$3.1 million less in tax revenue to the government over the next six months of the current fiscal year.
But he added “it isn’t like we are losing this money.”
“It is going into people’s pockets, and they will spend it so it will circulate in the local economy.”
He said the intention was to provide an immediate increase in the amount of money people have to help with the skyrocketing costs from the war that the U.S and Israel launched against Iran last month.
This combined with the release of the second quarter universal basic income payments beginning 24 March to all 37,000 citizens in the country, and the rollout of the Extraordinary Needs Distribution program with food, cash power subsidies and other cost of living help for 11 atolls and islands is coming at a timely moment.
Both the universal basic income program and the Extraordinary Needs Distribution program are funded by the Compact of Free Association Trust Fund capitalised by the United States.
Already, gas prices at the pump have jumped about 14 percent in just two weeks and diesel at Mobil Oil-supplied stations is up 25 percent since the war on Iran started on 28 February.
The cascading impact of these global events can be seen everywhere. The Marshalls Energy Company (MEC), the government’s utility company, announced that it expects to raise electricity rates next month.
“Before the Iran War, MEC was spending approximately US$3m per shipment per month on diesel fuel,” the utility said in a release Wednesday.
“”Based on current market conditions, that cost is now expected to reach close to US$7m per shipment.”
MEC said it expects it will need to respond to this global fuel price rise by raising tariffs by as much as 23 percent in April. The utility company raised its rates in early February, and residential rates are now 43.2 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh).
A 23 percent increase is 10 cents, meaning home power could jump to 53 cents per kWh next month. Business power costs could rise from the current 51.6 cents per kWh to over 63 cents a kwh in April.
All of this – the higher cost of shipping goods from the US, Australia, New Zealand and Asia, airfares, fuel for drivers, and power – adds up to a fast-rising costs of living for people in the urban centres in the Marshall Islands…. PACNEWS
FIJI – IRAN CRISIS/FUEL PRICE: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 20 Mar 2026
Private sector in Fiji calls for inclusion in national fuel measures
SUVA, 20 MARCH 2026 (FIJI TIMES) — The Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) is calling for greater private sector involvement in national fuel management measures as Government steps up its response to global fuel uncertainties.
In a statement, FCEF welcomed Government’s appointment of a Fuel Controller, as well as the establishment of a Fuel Advisory Committee and a Cabinet Sub-Committee for Energy.
FCEF Chief Executive Officer Edward Bernard said the move comes at a critical time for businesses, workers and the wider public.
“We support this initiative and hope that there will be greater information sharing, consultations and coordination with the private sector to optimise positive outcomes at this time of heightened uncertainty,” Bernard said.
He noted that fuel security has become a major concern across all industries in recent weeks, including for micro and small enterprises.
Bernard said it is essential that national measures ensure reliable fuel supply, stable pricing and greater certainty for businesses.
He added that the new framework should focus on sourcing fuel from the most viable markets, prioritising distribution efficiently, and planning for further disruptions to supply and prices.
FCEF also highlighted the added risk posed by the ongoing cyclone season, saying decisions made now must provide confidence and stability to the business community.
Bernard said the organisation will continue engaging with businesses to support operational continuity while clearly communicating industry priorities to Government…. PACNEWS
FIJI – AGRICULTURE: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 20 Mar 2026
Fiji PM Rabuka commends farmers and the private sector
NADI, 20 MARCH 2026 (FIJI GOVT) — Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has praised the dedication and excellence of Fijian farmers while highlighting the critical role of partnerships in driving agricultural growth at the British American Tobacco (BAT) Fiji Star Farmer Awards in Nadi.
The Head of Government said the programme stands as a strong example of how investment, innovation, and good farming practices can transform Fiji’s agriculture sector and improve livelihoods across rural communities.
“Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Fiji’s development, providing food security, employment, and income for many of our people. Our vision is to transform the sector into a vibrant engine of a fast-growing, resilient, and modern economy.”
He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to achieving at least 6 percent GDP growth annually by boosting investment, increasing productivity, and expanding export opportunities.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the longstanding contribution of British American Tobacco Fiji in supporting local farmers through structured training programmes that enhance technical capacity, promote best practices, and improve yields and incomes.
“Partnerships like these demonstrate the important role of the private sector in complementing Government efforts and delivering inclusive and sustainable development outcomes,” he said.
Since its establishment in 2022, the Star Farmer Programme has trained more than 600 farmers in agronomy and modern farming techniques. The initiative promotes innovation, knowledge sharing, and sustainable practices, helping farmers improve crop quality, increase productivity, and adapt to climate challenges.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka noted that the programme is not only recognising excellence but also serving as a catalyst for change within the agriculture sector.
Prime Minister Rabuka also congratulated all award recipients, acknowledging their commitment to excellence and leadership in agriculture.
“Your dedication, resilience, and innovation continue to elevate the standards of Fiji’s farming sector and strengthen the livelihoods of rural communities across the country,” he said.
He further commended BAT Fiji for its ongoing support, noting that its initiatives reflect a shared commitment to sustainability, community development, and national prosperity.
The highlight of the event was the recognition of Gold Star Farmer of the Year, Daya Nand of Koronubu, Ba, whose dedication, innovation, and consistent performance have set a benchmark for excellence in farming.
Nand, who has been a sugarcane farmer since 1991 and joined tobacco farming in 2003, has successfully diversified his operations to include vegetables, rice, cattle, and goat farming—demonstrating resilience and smart farm management.
Cultivating one and a half acres of tobacco, he produces between 15 to 16 tonnes annually, earning approximately $15,000 (US$7, 500) after deductions.
I am very happy after receiving this award today, and I dedicate this achievement to the farmers of Koronubu and Ba,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of hard work, collaboration, and community support, noting that farmers in Koronubu work closely together and support one another to succeed.
“There is sweet success in hard work. With dedication, we can move forward and overcome any challenge,” he said.
Nand also acknowledged the support provided by British American Tobacco Fiji, stating that access to farming inputs, equipment, and technical assistance has significantly improved productivity and livelihoods.
General Manager of British American Tobacco Fiji, James Goldring, said the Star Farmer Programme reflects the company’s long-term commitment to supporting Fiji’s agricultural sector and rural communities.
Goldring highlighted that BAT is proud to partner with local farmers and support initiatives that build capacity, improve productivity, and promote sustainable farming practices.
“The Star Farmer Programme is about recognising excellence while equipping farmers with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in a changing agricultural landscape. Our continued investment is aimed at strengthening livelihoods and contributing to Fiji’s broader economic growth.”
A total of 90 farmers were recognised at this year’s awards, including six platinum, 12 gold, and 72 silver recipients, underscoring the growing impact of the programme across Fiji…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Co‑designing inclusive meteorological services to reach the last mile
SUVA, 20 MARCH 2026 (SPC) — Over 50 participants from organisations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) and national meteorological services across the Pacific will gather in Port Vila, Vanuatu, next week (March 23 – 27, 2026) for a regional Gender, Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion GEDSI workshop focused on Inclusive Weather and Climate Services in Practice: From Commitment to Delivery.
The Pacific Community (SPC), through its Climate and Oceans Support Program in the Pacific (COSPPac), is scaling up its groundbreaking GEDSI co-pilot from a national initiative to a regional co-design approach involving Pacific meteorological services and organisations of persons with disabilities.
Launched last year with the Fiji Meteorological Service, the initiative invited disability organisations to participate in the design process for the first time, ensuring that weather information, warnings, and climate and ocean products are accessible, understandable, and actionable for persons with disabilities across Fiji and, eventually, the wider region.
This year, COSPPac is taking that model across the Pacific, beginning with a workshop in Vanuatu next week, working with national meteorological services to ensure that inclusive design becomes the standard rather than the exception.
The Fiji Meteorological Service emphasised that “By integrating the perspectives of persons with disabilities, FMS aims to tailor its products and communication strategies to better meet the diverse needs of our communities.”
Pacific Disability Forum Chief Executive, Sainimili Tawake, says the partnership represents a significant step towards regional equity in meteorological services and products that are accessible and understandable.
“We talk about climate, ocean and weather, but within these big portfolios, persons with disabilities have often been excluded. This initiative allows us to change that. By working together from the design phase, we are strengthening the systems and strengthening ourselves as partners so that information reaches the last mile.”
Through workshops with the Fiji Disabled Peoples Federation (FDPF) and local OPDs, the Fiji Meteorological Services explored accessible formats, identified communication gaps, and reviewed materials with lived‑experience experts.
Tawake says the Fiji experience confirmed that, “We cannot simply adapt global guidance and expect it to work. Persons with disabilities must be in the room, shaping the design. It is their lived reality that helps us create communication that truly reaches the last mile.”
FDPF’s Disaster Risk Reduction focal point, Jay Nasilasila, says the co-design also shifted the role of persons with disabilities from beneficiaries to key actors.
He emphasises that for persons with disabilities, preparedness must be “earlier than early.”
“When people receive information in formats they can understand, they can act quickly, prepare medicines and consumables, plan for assistive devices, and confirm accessible evacuation routes. For persons with disabilities, preparedness is different, and accessible information is the difference between risk and safety.”
The regional workshop and Fiji pilot are being coordinated by COSPPac’s GEDSI Adviser, Michelle Gudo, in close collaboration with SPC’s HRSD team. Together, they are strengthening partnerships with OPDs focusing on reaching the last mile…. PACNEWS
The wins and woes of Luxon’s Pacific visit
The Prime Minister’s visit to Samoa and Tonga showed the depth of cultural connections with NZ – but those ties shouldn’t be taken for granted
By Sam Sachdeva
WELLINGTON, 20 MARCH 2026 (THE NEWSROOM) — Visits to the Pacific are meant to offer New Zealand prime ministers a (relatively) low-stakes opportunity to escape any domestic woes.
Take part in some colourful photo opportunities, announce aid funding for worthy projects, and lap up the acclaim – or so the theory goes.
Yet while Christopher Luxon ultimately did end his three-day swing through the region on a high note, with a horde of energetic Tongan schoolchildren singing their hearts out, it was nearly overshadowed by a diplomatic faux pas beyond his control – while there are more fundamental policy issues that may yet come back to bite in future.
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Several days on, it is still hard to understand the motivations behind Samoan prime minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt’s decision to insert drama into the awarding of a matai (or chiefly) title to Luxon by suggesting the New Zealand leader had lobbied for such an honour.
Unequivocal denials from Luxon and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade eventually led to a formal retraction from the Samoan government – but La’aulialemalietoa was not done, publicly telling a state dinner his Kiwi counterpart had threatened to pull out based on negative social media feedback, only to be talked out of any nerves by NZ-Samoan rugby legend Sir Michael Jones.
That seems a questionable summary of events, with the New Zealand side instead seeing La’aulialemalietoa as having turned Luxon into a sacrificial lamb – or perhaps something closer to the roasted pig presented at his title ceremony – by making incorrect claims that fuelled pre-existing critiques about his leadership.
For all that Luxon remained eager to talk up the strength of the New Zealand-Samoa relationship, trust between the leaders has surely suffered as a result – and with the Government already struggling to find a breakthrough in its relationship with Cook Islands prime minister Mark Brown, the last thing it needs is another difficult head of government at a crucial Pacific partner.
A far knottier issue to resolve in the long run is the vexed issue of visa access for Pacific nationals, a question Luxon faced multiple times during his trip with an increasing sense of frustration.
It is reasonable for the Prime Minister to note his government’s efforts to improve access in some ways, such as lowering visa costs and allowing citizens of Pacific Islands Forum members to visit from Australia without a visa.
But that still falls some way short of resolving the fraught issue of Samoans, Tongans and others with strong connections to New Zealand finding it difficult to travel at short notice for funerals and other major family events.
The Government’s hardline immigration approach also runs the risk of undermining its efforts to tackle another key issue for the Pacific – the proliferation of transnational crime and drug smuggling.
Luxon has made clear the damage caused by criminal gangs like the Comancheros in the region. But New Zealand has for some time deported criminals to small Pacific states despite some having spent most of their lives in Aotearoa, and Immigration Minister Erica Stanford is promising “more of a hardline approach”, raising the spectre of further deportations fuelling gang issues.
There are other areas where the coalition Government may end up diverging from the interests of Pacific partners.
Interestingly, climate change – frequently identified by Pacific nations as the region’s top security threat – barely rated a mention in Luxon’s engagements, perhaps as a result of the Government’s own hesitant approach to the issue at a domestic level.
The Prime Minister’s visit came in the same week that Defence Minister Judith Collins spoke of plans to more thoroughly integrate the NZ Defence Force with its Australian counterparts.
Some experts have questioned whether turning New Zealand’s military into a “small Australia” could undermine its unique culture that can open doors in places like the Pacific.
Ultimately, New Zealand’s cultural and familial connections with the likes of Samoa and Tonga are too deep for the bilateral relationships to be dramatically changed overnight – but nor should Luxon and his government take those ties for granted…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS In Focus
1 year after Papua New Guinea declared itself Christian, bishops say little has changed
By Bryan Lawrence
PORT MORESBY, 20 MARCH 2026 (EWTN NEWS) — Catholic bishops in Papua New Guinea say last year’s constitutional declaration of the country as a Christian nation has had little practical effect on Church life but could pose long-term risks.
On March 12, 2025, Papua New Guinea’s Parliament passed a constitutional amendment by an 80-4 vote formally declaring the country a Christian nation. Led by Prime Minister James Marape, the amendment revised the constitution’s preamble to explicitly acknowledge the Trinity and recognise the Bible as a national symbol.
The updated text states: “We acknowledge and declare God, the Father; Jesus Christ, the Son; and Holy Spirit, as our Creator and Sustainer of the entire universe and the source of our powers and authorities, delegated to the people and all persons within the geographical jurisdiction of Papua New Guinea.”
One year later, Catholic bishops say the amendment has so far had little practical effect on Church life, while raising longer-term questions about religious freedom and Church-state relations.
Limited practical impact so far
Bishop Donald F. Lippert, OFM Cap, of the Diocese of Mendi told EWTN News that the Catholic Church continues its core mission regardless of constitutional language, focusing on “making our people and hence the country more ‘Christian’” through pastoral ministry and its extensive work in education, health care, and social services.
The Pittsburgh-born bishop said concerns raised at the time of the amendment’s passage sparked debate within Papua New Guinea’s Christian communities about whether the change was necessary, given that the constitution already referenced Christian principles. Some also expressed concern that the amendment could, over time, allow the state to take a more active role in religious affairs or complicate protections for religious liberty.
So far, Lippert said, he has not observed concrete changes affecting parish life in his diocese. He suggested the amendment has functioned more as a symbolic affirmation than as a practical guide for governance.
He also said the Church must continue engaging public authorities prudently while maintaining its prophetic voice on pressing social issues, including violence linked to sorcery accusations, tribal conflict, and child protection.
Questions over alignment between constitutional change and public policy
Since taking office in 2019, Marape has framed his leadership around the vision of “Taking Back PNG: Making PNG the Richest Black Christian Nation in the World.”
Yet observers say recent government actions sit uneasily alongside that pledge. They point to the removal of blanket tax exemptions for churches, a move widely seen as an effort to expand state revenue by taxing religious institutions, highlighting that government priorities can be shaped more by fiscal and political concerns than by constitutional religious language.
The ambition to become the “richest” nation appears to take precedence over the commitment to remain a “Christian” one, with fiscal policy treating churches less as partners in nation building and more as a taxable base, despite their central role in providing education, health care, and social services across the country.
Additionally, some have expressed concern that leadership positions across the legislature, executive, and judiciary, as well as within the national public service, are disproportionately held by members of the Seventh-day Adventist faith, raising questions about denominational balance and the perception of neutrality in public institutions, particularly in the context of the 2025 constitutional amendment.
Catholic leaders warn of long-term risks to religious freedom
Bishop Rozario Menezes, SMM, of the Diocese of Lae told EWTN News the Catholic Church opposed the amendment not because it rejects Papua New Guinea’s Christian identity but because it judged the change “unnecessary and problematic.”
He explained that the Church has “always proclaimed Christ and served the spiritual and social development of our country since before independence” and argued that the constitution already provided “a strong moral and Christian foundation.”
“There was no constitutional vacuum that required such an amendment,” he said.
Menezes warned that the amendment could create long-term risks even if it has not yet produced visible disruptions. He said it could “risk contradicting the rights and freedoms enshrined in the constitution,” including “freedom of conscience, thought, religion, and assembly,” and could allow future governments to “enact laws or regulations that may adversely affect minority faith communities or citizens of no religious affiliation.”
While noting that “at present, there has not been significant visible disruption to the practices of different faith communities,” he said concerns remain that future governments could “by decree or regulation, interfere in religious practice,” particularly if religious life becomes subject to political interpretation.
Concerns over Church-state balance and institutional autonomy
Menezes also pointed to earlier state actions that, in his view, demonstrate how religious symbolism can become entangled with politics. These include the installation of the King James Version Bible in Parliament, which he noted “is not a Catholic translation,” and what he described as a “legally and theologically problematic” covenant language behind a 2017 National Day of Repentance government campaign.
He said the amendment appears to have been promoted by pastors linked to a Protestant movement known as the Body of Christ, which the Catholic Church is not part of. At the same time, he said the government remains aware of the Catholic Church’s significant contributions in education, health care, and public life, and engagement between Church and state remains cautious and measured.
Although no overt restrictions have emerged, Menezes conveyed that Church leaders are watching for subtler institutional effects. He pointed to cases in which appointments of teachers and principals to Catholic agency schools occurred “without meaningful consultation,” raising broader questions about “partnership, respect, and justice” in Church-state relations.
Such developments, he suggested, test the practical health of Church-state relations in a country that has historically maintained social harmony through mutual respect rather than coercion…. PACNEWS Bryan Lawrence Gonsalves is a UAE-born apologist and essayist currently living in Lithuania. His work focuses on Catholic social teaching, theology, human dignity, and contemporary social issues