In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — Pacific Tuna stock hold firm, but FFA warns future at risk
2. PACIFIC — Fiji jumps, Samoa plunges in World Press Freedom Index
3. FIJI — Fiji Medical Association calls for evidence-based drug testing framework
4. PACIFIC— Regional symposium targets renewable transition and stronger energy data across Pacific SIDS
5. PALAU — Palau enters neutral Climate Phase, Drier months and warmer temperatures expected
6. FIJI — Blank RFMF ammunition, toy gun confirmed in separate Nabua incident: Fiji Police
7. AUST — Japan’s ‘Iron Lady’ lands in Australia to shore up ties
8. PACNEWS BIZ — NICTA clears Starlink for PNG, sets rules for use
9. PACNEWS BIZ — Pacific energy and transport leaders to meet in PNG for regional summit
10. PACNEWS BIZ — GovGuam probes cyberattack
11. PACNEWS BIZ — Business group says Guam’s quick recovery underscores the value of infrastructure maintenance
12. PACNEWS DIGEST — Pacific climate experts convene in Fiji to assess recent La Niña impacts
13. PACNEWS DIGEST — Fiji and SPC Sign €240,000 grant to assess climate Loss and Damage in agriculture
14. PACNEWS DIGEST — Better forecasts, better decisions: Pacific Forecasters strengthen seasonal climate services for communities and sectors
PAC – FISHERIES: PACNEWS PACNEWS 2: Mon 04 May 2026
Pacific Tuna stock hold firm, but FFA warns future at risk
By Pita Ligaiula
SUVA/HONIARA, 04 MAY 2026 (PACNEWS)—Collective efforts have delivered an exceptional result in global fisheries management, representing not only a Pacific achievement but a milestone of global significance.
That is the message from Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) as the region marked World Tuna Day, highlighting strong tuna stocks and billion-dollar revenues while warning that illegal fishing, climate change and unequal benefits threaten long-term sustainability.
In an opinion editorial, the Director-General of FFA, Noan Pakop said tuna remains central to Pacific economies, cultures and food security.
“The annual World Tuna Day on 02 May, gives us a moment to reflect on its significance to us as Pacific people, whose lives and cultures revolve around the ocean. From our ocean to supermarket shelves around the world, tuna feeds millions of people and drives global seafood trade. For Pacific Island Countries and Territories, tuna is more than just a commodity that generates revenue – from time immemorial, it has been a cornerstone of food security and livelihoods.”
He said this year’s theme puts the spotlight on responsibility and long-term thinking.
“This year’s theme, Advocating for Tuna Conservation, is a timely reminder of our responsibility to ensure sustainability for future generations. We owe it to our children and grandchildren, and for this to happen, we need to be more responsible, smart, and strategic in how we consume, how we fish, and how we understand our relationship with the ocean.”
Pakop highlighted the scale of the industry, with tuna generating more than US$1 billion annually for Pacific Island countries, while access fees alone bring in around US$500 million each year.
He said current stock levels remain stable but warned that pressure is increasing.
“For the time being, according to scientific data, our tuna stocks remain healthy despite increasing pressure – but for how long? Skipjack, yellowfin, bigeye, and albacore stocks – the four key commercial species, are still estimated to be in reasonable numbers.”
The FFA head credited decades of coordinated regional action for this outcome, including joint surveillance operations such as Kurukuru, Rai Balang, Tui Moana and Island Chief.
He said those efforts have also reduced losses from illegal fishing.
“In 2016, it was estimated that more than US$150 million worth of tuna was being siphoned from Pacific economies through predatory and illegal fishing practices. Through strengthened surveillance, improved data systems, and closer cooperation between fisheries agencies, customs, police, and other partners, these losses were reduced by 72 percent by 2021, to approximately US$43.18 million. This demonstrates that our surveillance efforts, as part of broader regional cooperation, are delivering results.”
Despite that progress, Pakop said major threats remain.
“Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing remains one of the greatest threats to our tuna stocks.”
He also warned that climate change is beginning to reshape ocean conditions, creating new risks for fisheries management systems built over decades.
“Another challenge we are facing at the moment is climate change, which is driving shifts in ocean conditions and, in turn, impacting tuna stocks. This will no doubt test the resilience of management systems that have taken years to build.”
Beyond conservation, he said the next challenge is ensuring Pacific countries get a fairer share of the value generated from their resources.
“At present, only a small share – around 15 percent of that tuna is processed within the region. Most of it leaves in raw form, and with it, much of the potential value. For Pacific Island countries, closing that gap is critical. More onshore processing means more jobs, more skills, and more income staying within local economies.”
Pakop highlighted regional initiatives such as the East New Britain Initiative as a pathway to building stronger value chains within the Pacific.
“This is where initiatives like the East New Britain Initiative (ENBi) can be effective. The idea is to connect the strengths of different countries, whether it is infrastructure, processing capacity, fuel supply, or access to fish, to build regional value chains that keep more benefits at home.”
He said this approach aligns with the broader goals of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, aimed at building a more resilient and economically secure region.
Pakop also stressed that managing tuna is not just a regional issue but a global responsibility, pointing to frameworks such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
“World Tuna Day is also a reminder that the Pacific cannot manage its tuna resources on its own. International frameworks, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and regional fisheries agreements, play a critical role in setting the rules for sustainable fishing.”
He said the Pacific has shown that sustainable management is possible, but momentum must be maintained.
“The Pacific has shown that managing tuna well is within the realm of possibility. It can be managed sustainably when countries work together. Healthy stocks, reduced illegal fishing, and strong regional cooperation are achievements worth recognising and sustaining.”
Pakop said the next phase will require deeper cooperation, innovation and stronger efforts to ensure benefits are shared more fairly.
“Conservation requires a multi-dimensional and continually evolving approach, not a one-off effort. It must be a regional effort, involving the marshalling of technical, economic, and political resources to protect our tuna stocks and ensure that the benefits are shared more equitably.”
He also called for continued action across the region and beyond.
“This is what World Tuna Day means. So, let us conserve, let us protect, and let us ensure the sustainability of our tuna resources for the future of our Pacific and generations to come,” said Pakop…..PACNEWS
PAC – MEDIA FREEDOM: PASIFIKA TV PACNEWS 2: Mon 04 May 2026
Fiji jumps, Samoa plunges in World Press Freedom Index
PORT MORESBY, 04 MAY 2026 (PASIFIKA TV)—Fiji has recorded a dramatic jump in its media freedom rating to be in the top 25 nations globally while Samoan government press restrictions have seen its rating plummet in the latest World Media Freedom Index.
Advocacy group Reporters Sans Frontières (RSF) said globally it was the first time since the index was first compiled in 2001 that more than half of the world’s countries fell into the “difficult” or “very serious” press freedom categories.
The index released annually for World Press Freedom Day covers 180 countries but reports on only four of two dozen Pacific island nations and territories, including Tonga and the lowest ranked in the region Papua New Guinea.
Three years after Fiji repealed its draconian media laws, it has climbed into the top tier of countries with free or mostly free media, recording a steep 15-point increase, the index’s second highest annual move globally after Syria.
Fiji has now risen from a low of 89 in 2023 to the 24th position, reflecting the change in government after coup leader Frank Bainimarama lost power in the 2022 election.
Associate Professor Shailendra Singh, Head of Journalism at the University of the South Pacific in Fiji, told Pasifika TV the ranking is a reflection of a freer media environment but there is no room for complacency.
“There is the growing tension between the media and the Government, and the bolder the media becomes, the more they test the Government tolerance for scrutiny and criticism,” he said, highlighting accusations of misinformation levelled at the media by Fiji’s Information Minister Lynda Tabuya last week.
“She criticised the doorstopping by a Fijian journalist and stated that this type of practice should be banned.
“This is a reminder that the fight for media freedom never ends and there are always new challenges cropping up, we can never let our guard down and any ethical breaches on our part makes for a stronger case for greater controls on the media.”
Fiji’s improved ranking was in contrast to the global trend for erosion of media independence, which also saw Samoa lead the way down for other Pacific nations surveyed.
Samoa posted the largest fall in the Pacific, plunging 15 points to 59th place, and the second greatest decline globally after Niger.
An acrimonious relationship between Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt and local journalists, particularly the Samoa Observer newspaper which he has banned from government press conferences, has been a major factor.
Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) last November issued a statement of “deep concern” and that it represents “a serious threat to media freedom, public access to information, and democratic accountability in Samoa and the wider Pacific region.”
La’aulialemalietoa rejected PINA’s position saying the Government had “documented evidence of unprofessional reporting and breach of media ethical standards that led to this action”.
President of PINA, Kalafi Moala told Pasifika TV the Samoan Government must improve its approach.
“The Samoa Observer has for decades followed the tradition of holding power to account and they’ll be the first one in trouble if there’s an issue there,” he said.
Overall Moala said he sensed the political mood toward media freedom in the Pacific had shifted.
“Throughout the Pacific, the governments are trying to learn from the past and that freedom of the press goes in hand-in-hand with democracy,” he told Pasifika TV at the Media Council of PNG’s (MCPNG) annual summit in Port Moresby.
“These are not the governments of the ’60s, ’70s or ’80s, these are new governments with a whole new crop (of politicians) coming up and they’re far more aware of the fact they’ve got to be more democratic.”
Papua New Guinea is the lowest ranked Pacific island nation at 73rd place, but is up five points, and slowly climbing.
Its rating dropped 32 points in 2024 to 91st place after Prime Minister James Marape’s Government announced plans to tighten the media laws and proposed registering journalists.
Extensive lobbying efforts by the MCPNG has seen the Government moderate its position.
“I’m really, really proud of it being part of the Media Council of Papua New Guinea,” said MCPNG Secretary Belinda Kora.
“We realised that when we went to sit down with authorities responsible for communication and technology, and our prime minister, the lack of understanding they have of our roles, which led to a parliamentary inquiry and for the first time in the history of this country, the recommendations of that inquiry were actually adopted by the parliament.
“So, when we’re sitting down with them, we’re making them aware and also educating them about why it is important to protect our rights.”
Tonga slipped five points to 51st position in the rankings but Mr Moala, founder and editor of Talanoa ‘o Tonga and who was imprisoned in 1996 for contempt of parliament, said he could not fathom why.
“Right now, with a new government and new prime minister elected, I’m just absolutely amazed,” he said.
“We’ve never had a government like that for the last 20 years, he (Prime Minister Lord Fatafehi Fakafānua) is having regular press conferences every week, is open for interviews with media, he personally and his government actively want information to come out of every department.
“We’re going in a direction and moving at a speed in terms of media freedom I’ve never seen before.”
Not ranked by RSF are Pacific island nations like Nauru, Kiribati and Tuvalu with little or no independent media, nor those with dynamic media environments like Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.
None of the territories or colonies of France and the United States are separately monitored or mentioned in the report.
“It is very sad that they (RSF) only concentrate on these four nations because it’s probably convenient to them,” he said.
“The whole Pacific is much bigger than that and our concern at PINA is there’s no coverage of any Micronesian country or territory.
“You’ve got Palau, you’ve got issues in the Marshall Islands, the American territories like Guam and so on.”
Only Australia and New Zealand were specifically mentioned in RSF’s Asia-Pacific annual regional report, despite the very significant gain made by Fiji and fall by Samoa by international standards.
Reporters Sans Frontières did not respond to Pasifika TV questions on why it does not cover all of the Pacific along with the 180 other nations.
Its report for Indonesia also does not mention West Papua where some of its harshest media restrictions are imposed, including bans of foreign media and regular internet blackouts during times of conflict, and where local journalists face intimidation.
Press freedom in the Pacific’s main donor partners – Australia, China, New Zealand and United States – continues to fall despite their provision of journalism training in the region.
New Zealand remains the highest ranked Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) member country at 22nd place but has fallen six points since last year, while Australia continues its declined, falling a further four points to sit at 33rd place.
The United States also continued its downward slide, falling seven points to 64th position, which RSF said was due to “President Donald Trump’s systematic weaponisation of state institutions, including funding cuts to public broadcasters”.
In April 2024, the Trump administration cut funding to Radio Free Asia, and its BenarNews Pacific service, ending coverage of the region, though it has now resumed with an almost exclusive focus on China related stories.
Other media initiatives impacted by the US cuts included Internews and OCCRP.
China at 178th sits third from the bottom of the index, just above North Korea and Eritrea.
Reporters Sans Frontières said “the Government has dramatically expanded its repressive toolkit in recent years, including a raft of national security laws that are regularly invoked to imprison journalists”.
“With 121 media professionals currently behind bars, China is the world’s largest jailer of journalists.” …PACNEWS
FIJI – DRUGS FIGHT: PACNEWS PACNEWS 2: Mon 04 May 2026
Fiji Medical Association calls for evidence-based drug testing framework
SUVA, 04 MAY 2026 (PACNEWS)— The Fiji Medical Association (FMA) says Government’s push to introduce drug testing for officials must be guided by science, ethics and human rights, warning that poorly designed systems can do more harm than good in addressing substance abuse in Fiji.
FMA President Dr Ronal Kumar said while the association supports efforts to tackle illicit drug use, including methamphetamine, drug testing must not be treated as a stand-alone disciplinary tool.
The association acknowledged Government’s recent steps, saying it “acknowledges the Government’s recent steps to introduce drug testing among government officials and recognises the seriousness of illicit drug use, particularly methamphetamine, as a growing national concern.”
It also stated its support for protecting public institutions.
“The FMA supports efforts to protect public safety, integrity and confidence in public institutions.”
However, Dr Kumar stressed that the approach must go beyond enforcement.
“However, we emphasise that drug testing is a medical, ethical and public-health issue and not merely a disciplinary one. Therefore, this must be governed by: – clear policy – scientific evidence – and human-rights principles”
The FMA warned that drug testing, if poorly designed, risks unfair outcomes and legal challenges.
“International experience shows that drug testing, when poorly designed, can lead to: misinterpretation of results, unfair consequences for workers, legal and constitutional disputes and stigma that discourages people from seeking help”
It also highlighted that common urine testing does not necessarily indicate impairment.
“Urine drug testing, which has been widely reported in the media, detects drug metabolites rather than current impairment. A positive result does not necessarily mean a person is intoxicated, unsafe to work, or using drugs at the time of testing. This distinction is particularly important for substances such as cannabis”
The FMA said testing must not be used in isolation.
“For drug testing to be credible, ethical and effective, it must form part of a well-designed national framework, not operate in isolation.”
Citing international practice, Dr Kumar said most countries apply targeted testing rather than blanket screening across the public service.
“The International Labour Organisation explicitly warns that testing should never be the sole or primary response to drug problems in the workplace.”
“The UK government explicitly states employers should limit testing to employees who genuinely need to be tested.”
“Australia’s Department of Home Affairs runs drug testing as part of a formal integrity and workplace safety framework, not a public-confidence exercise.”
“New Zealand regulators emphasise that drug testing alone does not manage risk and must sit within a broader policy framework.”
“The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) embeds human-rights principles into testing standards, recognising the seriousness of bodily and reputational intrusion.”
The FMA said there is limited international precedent for blanket testing without safeguards.
“There is little international precedent for blanket, whole-of-civil-service testing without a comprehensive policy framework. Where drug testing exists, it is almost always accompanied by strong governance, medical oversight and treatment pathways.”
Dr Kumar also emphasised that drug dependence is a health condition, not just a disciplinary matter.
“The FMA stresses that substance use disorders are recognised medical conditions. Evidence consistently shows that punitive, shame-based approaches worsen outcomes, while early assessment, counselling and treatment are more effective for individuals, workplaces and society.”
It added that recovery should be prioritised over punishment.
“Drug testing should therefore prioritise risk management and recovery, not punishment alone.”
The association urged Government to adopt safeguards before rolling out any programme.
The FMA calls on Government to ensure that any drug-testing programme is supported by the following minimum safeguards:
These include a clear national policy, saying it “defines the purpose of testing (e.g. safety, not morality), specifies who is tested, when, and under what circumstances, and sets out consequences and support pathways transparently.”
The FMA also called for “proportionate and risk-based testing” and warned against blanket screening.
“No employment or disciplinary action based on screening tests alone” and “mandatory confirmatory laboratory testing for all non-negative results.” it further stressed,
On governance, it called for “independent medical review of positive results” and protection for prescribed medications and medical explanations.
It also urged safeguards for rights, including “informed consent, confidential handling of health information, and clear appeal and review mechanisms.”
The FMA said any system must also include treatment pathways.
“Referral to assessment, counselling and treatment services” and “treatment and rehabilitation prioritised over punitive measures, especially for first or early findings.”
Dr Kumar said the association is not rejecting drug testing but wants it properly structured.
“To be clear, the FMA is not opposed to drug testing. On the contrary, we believe drug testing can play a useful role when it is evidence-based, proportionate and ethically implemented.”
He said the association is ready to work with Government.
“The Fiji Medical Association stands ready to work with Government, regulators and employers to help design a credible, humane and effective drug-testing framework that genuinely contributes to a healthier and safer Fiji,” he said…. PACNEWS
PAC – RENEWABLE ENERGY: ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS 2: Mon 04 May 2026
Regional symposium targets renewable transition and stronger energy data across Pacific SIDS
PORT MORESBY, 04 MAY 2026 (ISLAND TIMES) — Government officials, regional agencies and development partners convened last week for the Pacific SIDS Regional Symposium and Energy Statistics Training Workshop, focusing on renewable energy transition and strengthening energy data systems across the region.
The three-day event, held at APEC Haus, brought together representatives from Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) alongside technical experts and international organisations to address one of the region’s most pressing challenges: achieving secure, affordable, and sustainable energy systems in the face of climate vulnerability.
The symposium is supported by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNESCAP), working in partnership with the Pacific Community through its Geoscience, Energy and Maritime (GEM) Division, as well as other regional and international stakeholders.
The collaboration reflects a coordinated effort to align policy, technical expertise, and financing toward common regional energy goals.
Discussions throughout the symposium focused on practical pathways to accelerate the transition to renewable energy.
Pacific nations have set ambitious targets, with several aiming for high or near-total renewable energy penetration in the coming decades. However, participants noted that challenges remain, particularly in financing, infrastructure development, and maintaining reliable energy supply across geographically dispersed island systems.
Sessions highlighted ongoing pilot projects and country-level initiatives, allowing participants to share lessons learned and identify scalable solutions.
The emphasis on peer exchange — often described as SIDS-to-SIDS cooperation — underscored the value of shared experiences among island nations facing similar constraints.
Running in parallel, the Energy Statistics Training Workshop addressed gaps in data collection and reporting that continue to limit effective energy planning. Participants from national statistics offices, energy departments, and utilities received hands-on training in methodologies for compiling energy balances, tracking consumption patterns, and improving data quality.
Organisers stressed that robust energy statistics are essential for evidence-based policymaking. Reliable data allows governments to monitor progress toward renewable energy targets, assess the performance of energy systems, and make informed decisions on investments and regulatory frameworks.
The GEM Division of SPC plays a central role in this effort, providing technical assistance, data platforms, and capacity building support to Pacific countries. Its work spans energy security, climate resilience, and sustainable resource management, positioning it as a key regional partner in advancing the Pacific’s energy agenda.
Participants also examined the role of investment in scaling renewable energy solutions.
Access to financing remains a significant barrier for many Pacific SIDS, where small market size and high infrastructure costs can deter private sector involvement. Discussions explored mechanisms to de-risk investments and attract funding from both public and private sources.
The symposium’s combined focus on policy dialogue and technical training reflects a broader regional strategy: linking high-level commitments with the operational capacity needed to implement them. By strengthening both institutional frameworks and data systems, organizers aim to move countries beyond planning toward measurable outcomes.
As the event continues, outcomes are expected to inform national energy strategies and contribute to regional and global climate commitments.
For Pacific Island countries, the transition to renewable energy is closely tied to long-term resilience, reducing dependence on imported fuels, and building more sustainable economies…. PACNEWS
PALAU – WEATHER WATCH: ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS 2: Mon 04 May 2026
Palau enters neutral Climate Phase, Drier months and warmer temperatures expected
KOROR, 04 MAY 2026 (ISLAND TIMES)— Palau is moving into a neutral climate phase after a short-lived La Niña ended in early April, according to the latest Palau Climate Bulletin.
Forecasters say this shift could bring less rain and warmer conditions in the months ahead, with a possible move toward El Niño later this year.
The bulletin explains that the Pacific is now in an “ENSO-neutral” state, meaning it is neither La Niña nor El Niño. However, experts say conditions could gradually change, and an El Niño event — which often brings drier weather to Palau — may develop by mid-2026 and continue through the end of the year.
Recent rainfall has been mixed. January to March saw near-normal rainfall overall, while March alone was wetter than usual at many weather stations.
Looking ahead, May is expected to be drier than normal across Palau, especially in Hatohobei. The trend may continue through July, with Koror, much of Babeldaob, and the southwest islands also likely to see below-normal rainfall.
This means residents could start noticing fewer rainy days and possibly drier conditions affecting water supply, farming, and daily activities.
Temperatures are also expected to increase. Recent data shows daytime highs mostly in the 80s to low 90s, with nighttime temperatures in the 70s to low 80s.
From May through July, both daytime and nighttime temperatures are likely to be above normal. This could mean hotter days, warmer nights, and increased discomfort, especially during dry periods.
Other major climate patterns are not expected to bring significant changes for now.
The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), which can influence rainfall, is currently neutral and is expected to stay that way through at least May. This means it is not likely to increase or reduce rainfall in Palau in the short term.
The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), a band of clouds and rain near the equator, has been positioned slightly north of its usual location. However, forecasters say it is not expected to have a strong impact on Palau’s weather at this time.
Meanwhile, the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO), another system that affects cloudiness and rain, is currently over the Indian Ocean. As it moves, it may temporarily reduce cloud cover in parts of the western Pacific and could support the development of El Niño if it strengthens later.
In simple terms, Palau is entering a period where:
*Rainfall may decrease, especially from May through July
* Temperatures will likely be warmer than usual
* A shift toward El Niño could bring longer dry conditions later in the year
Officials advise the public to stay aware of changing weather patterns, conserve water where possible, and prepare for hotter and potentially drier months ahead….PACNEWS
FIJI – POLICE INVESTIGATION: PACNEWS PACNEWS 2: Mon 04 May 2026
Blank RFMF ammunition, toy gun confirmed in separate Nabua incident: Fiji Police
SUVA, 04 MAY 2026 (PACNEWS)— Fiji Police say ammunition found in Nasinu has been confirmed as military training blanks, while a separate case in Nabua involving a reported firearm sighting has been linked to a toy BB-type gun, with investigations still ongoing in both matters.
In the Nasinu case, police confirmed the discovery of ammunition reported on 21 April 2026 was tied to a Republic of Fiji Military Forces(RFMF) training exercise conducted on the same day.
“The blanks were confirmed by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces as ones used for a training exercise on the same day the report was received.”
“It has been confirmed that they were blanks and posed no threat to the safety of the public.”
Police said the ammunition has since been returned to the RFMF.
However, a separate report involving a student who found 13 rounds of ammunition at the Nabua Topline Bus Stop remains under investigation.
Authorities say further inspection is required to determine the authenticity, functionality, and origin of the items.
In another Nabua incident involving a reported sighting of a gun by a security officer, police have questioned the vehicle owner linked to the case.
“He confirmed that at the time of the sighting, his son was holding a toy gun that matched the description given by the security officer.”
The item was examined by the Force Armourer and found to resemble a BB-type gun.
“While it is most often treated as a toy, investigations are ongoing to determine where it was sourced.”
Police say investigations continue into both cases….PACNEWS
AUST – DIPLOMACY: AAP PACNEWS 2: Mon 04 May 2026
Japan’s ‘Iron Lady’ lands in Australia to shore up ties
CANBERRA, 04 MAY 2026 (AAP)—Australian foreign minister Penny Wong has dismissed suggestions Australia could lease submarines from Japan if the AUKUS deal fails, during a visit from the Asian nation’s leader.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi arrived in Canberra on Sunday ahead of talks with Anthony Albanese at Parliament House.
The visit, which marks 50 years since the signing of a treaty which established relations between the two countries, is expected to focus on energy and defence.
But Foreign Minister Wong has played down reports the defence talks could turn to a Japanese back-up for the $368 billion (US$265 billion) AUKUS submarine deal with the U.S and UK.
Former senior defence official Richard Gray said in a report by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute that risks in the AUKUS programme could leave the country without a submarine.
He recommended Japan as an “attractive partner” to explore contingencies.
“Thanks to its prudent industrial policies and extensive manufacturing capability, it possesses a young, large, modern, highly capable submarine fleet,” he wrote in the report.
Senator Wong said Australia would continue to focus on AUKUS.
“We have a clear AUKUS plan, that is our focus,” she told Nine’s Today programme on Monday.
“Having said that, we obviously will continue to work very closely with Japan.
“Japan is our special strategic partner. Our relationship has grown from strength to strength over the last 50 years,” she said.
The conservative Japanese leader, who considers former British prime minister Margaret Thatcher an inspiration, won a massive election victory in October, giving her a mandate to push through key reforms, particularly on defence.
Canberra chose Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to supply its upgraded Mogami-class frigate for Australia’s navy for $10 billion (US$7.21 billion).
Senator Wong said the decision on the frigates with Japan indicated close defence ties between the two countries.
While the treaty between Australia and Japan was negotiated in the context of the 1973 Middle East oil shock, this trip also takes place against the backdrop of a fuel crisis caused by the U.S-led war on Iran.
A deal on critical minerals is expected, while Ms Takaichi is likely to seek assurances from Australia for certainty about gas supplies.
During her stay in the nation’s capital, the Japanese leader will also visit the Australian War Memorial, where she will lay a wreath at the tomb of the unknown soldier, as well as visit Governor-General Sam Mostyn.
Australian Strategic Policy Institute senior analyst Alex Bristow said the centrepiece of the visit would be an uplift of the partnership and would likely include new initiatives.
“The joint statement on economic security that will be announced … is expected to include language on energy and critical mineral supply chains,” he said.
“It may go further and also address vital technologies, like AI, which Takaichi has prioritised in her domestic economic reforms.”
It is the first time a Japanese prime minister has visited Australia since Fumio Kishida travelled to Perth in 2022. …PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
PNG – STARLINK: PACNEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 04 May 2026
NICTA clears Starlink for PNG, sets rules for use
PORT MORESBY, 04 MAY 2026 (PACNEWS)—Papua New Guinea’s telecoms regulator has confirmed the activation of Starlink services in the country, marking a major shift in internet access while warning that operators and users must comply with national laws.
In a public notice, the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) announced the activation of Starlink services in Papua New Guinea, saying the move is part of efforts to expand connectivity, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
The regulator said it has granted approval following assessments of the satellite-based service operated by Starlink, a division of SpaceX.
NICTA stated that the entry of Starlink into the PNG market is expected to improve access to reliable internet, especially for rural communities that have long struggled with limited or no connectivity.
The authority, however, made it clear that the rollout comes with conditions.
It said all users and entities must operate within PNG’s legal and regulatory framework, stressing that the service does not override existing telecommunications laws.
NICTA also highlighted that while the technology offers new opportunities, it must not disrupt the country’s licensed telecom operators or create regulatory gaps.
The regulator said it will continue to monitor the deployment and use of the service to ensure compliance, protect consumers, and maintain fair competition in the market.
The activation of Starlink is seen as a significant development for Papua New Guinea, where challenging geography has made nationwide connectivity difficult and costly.
Officials say the move could help bridge the digital divide, support businesses, and improve access to education and government services, particularly in remote provinces.
At the same time, NICTA signaled it will take enforcement action against any misuse of the service or breaches of licensing conditions.
The authority said its role remains to ensure that all communication services operating in the country contribute to national development while complying with established standards and regulations….PACNEWS
PAC – ENERGY MEET: ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 04 May 2026
Pacific energy and transport leaders to meet in Papua New Guinea for regional summit
PORT MORESBY, 04 MAY 2026 (ISLAND TIMES) — Pacific leaders, ministers, development partners will gather in Port Moresby from 04 – 08 May for the Sixth Pacific Regional Energy and Transport Ministers Meeting (PRETMM), under the theme “Scaling Connectivity for a Prosperous Blue Pacific,” a key regional forum focused on strengthening connectivity and sustainability across island nations.
Organised through regional cooperation mechanisms led by the Pacific Community (SPC) and partner agencies, the week-long event will include preparatory sessions for officials, technical discussions, and side meetings before ministers convene for formal dialogue and decision-making.
Energy security remains a central issue for Pacific countries, many of which depend heavily on imported fuel. Volatile global prices continue to place pressure on government budgets and increase the cost of living.
In response, countries have been pursuing renewable energy solutions such as solar, wind, and other locally available resources. The meeting is expected to review progress, identify gaps, and outline practical steps to accelerate the transition while maintaining reliability and affordability.
Transport connectivity is also expected to feature prominently. In a region defined by geographic dispersion, reliable transport networks are essential for trade, tourism, and access to basic services. Ministers are expected to discuss improvements in maritime and aviation systems, including inter-island shipping, port upgrades, and regional air links. Strengthening these systems is seen as critical to economic development and regional integration.
The 2026 meeting takes place against the backdrop of increasing climate-related pressures. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and infrastructure vulnerability continue to affect both energy and transport sectors. Discussions are expected to emphasise resilience, with a focus on designing and maintaining infrastructure that can withstand environmental risks while supporting long-term development.
Regional cooperation remains a central element of the PRETMM process. By sharing knowledge, coordinating policies, and leveraging collective capacity, Pacific nations aim to address common challenges more effectively. Development partners are expected to support these efforts through financing, technical assistance, and capacity-building initiatives aligned with regional priorities.
Papua New Guinea’s role as host underscores its position in regional infrastructure and energy discussions, with Port Moresby serving as a hub for high-level dialogue during the meeting. The gathering also provides opportunities for bilateral and multilateral engagements, allowing countries to advance specific projects and partnerships on the sidelines.
Outcomes from PRETMM 2026 are expected to shape regional strategies and guide future investments in energy and transport. For small island states such as Palau, the decisions carry direct relevance, influencing national planning, access to funding, and long-term development pathways.
As ministers convene, the meeting reflects a continued regional effort to balance economic growth with sustainability and resilience, while strengthening cooperation in addressing shared challenges across the Pacific….PACNEWS
GUAM – CYBER ATTACKS: PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 04 May 2026
GovGuam probes cyberattack
HAGATNA, 04 MAY 2026 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES)—Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero has ordered an investigation into a suspected cyberattack affecting government of Guam websites, a global incident linked to a critical zero-day vulnerability targeting cPanel-hosted websites.
“Preliminary information indicates that multiple guam.gov websites may be affected as part of a broader global event impacting systems across multiple jurisdictions. At this time, the full scope and scale of impact remain under active investigation,” states a statement from the office of the governor.
An immediate, government-wide assessment of all potentially impacted agencies has been ordered.
“Out of an abundance of caution, worst-case scenarios under review include potential data disruption, deletion, or encryption consistent with ransomware-type activity,” the governor’s office said.
Officials said there is currently no confirmation of any breach involving sensitive personal information.
The Office of Technology is leading response and recovery efforts, working in coordination with hosting partners to secure systems, assess integrity, and restore services using available backups where possible.
Immediate patching and system hardening measures are being implemented across all applicable platforms to prevent further exposure.
The Mariana Regional Fusion Centre and federal partners, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, have been notified and are engaged, as this incident appears to be part of a large-scale global cyber event.
“This is a serious situation, and we are treating it with urgency and discipline,” Leon Guerrero said. “Our focus is clear: secure our systems, protect the public, and restore services safely and as quickly as possible.”
At this time, there is no impact to emergency response operations. The Guam Homeland Security and Office of Civil Defense website remains operational.
Government services continue through alternate channels where necessary.
The Office of the Governor urges the public to rely only on official government communication platforms for updates and to remain cautious of phishing attempts or fraudulent websites.
Senator Shawn Gumataotao said he is in close contact with the Homeland Security advisor on the matter.
“The Committee on Public Safety, Emergency Management and the Guam National Guard has also been advised on this ongoing federal law enforcement response,” Gumatotao said.
“I ask our local government administrators and employees to remain vigilant and immediately report any issues when using Government of Guam digital platforms—including emails, software and websites—to the Office of Technology. There is no confirmed breach of sensitive personal information” he said…PACNEWS
GUAM – TYPHOON DAMAGE RESPONSE: PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 04 May 2026
Business group says Guam’s quick recovery underscores the value of infrastructure maintenance
HAGATNA, 04 MAY 2026 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) —Guam’s power and water services were quickly restored within a week after Super Typhoon Sinlaku pounded the region on 14 April, paving the way for the island’s prompt recovery.
“Sinlaku made another point obvious: recovery is faster when organisations have plans before the storm arrives,” the Guam Chamber of Commerce said in a statement, crediting the Guam Power Authority and the Guam Waterworks Authority “for the urgency and professionalism they brought to the recovery effort.”
GPA reported a 90 percent feeder restoration and GWA posted a 99.7 percent recovery with within four days after Guam returned to Condition of Readiness COR4.
Sinlaku, a Category 4 storm, smashed into Guam and the Northern Marianas with high winds of 155mph, storm surge and rainfall flooding.
The 14 April storm, which lingered for more than 24 hours, was the second disastrous typhoon to hammer Guam since 2023 when Mawar left the island in chaos—without power, water and communications systems for several months.
The Chamber of Commerce noted that every storm tested the systems, exposed the island’s weak points and disrupted the community’s normal routine.
The business group noted the “swift, visible recovery” after Sinlaku was “something worth recognizing.”
John Benavente, GPA general manager, attributed the quick recovery to “years of strategic planning.”
“Our ability to reconnect the grid, stabilize generation and restore power in phases is not by accident,” he said. “These are the results of long-term planning, strong partnerships, and a clear focus on reliability and resilience.”
John J. Cruz J., Assistant general manager of Engineering & Technical Services, said GPA’s modernisation was guided by the Integrated Resource Plan.
“We have turned the corner and we are accelerating,” Cruz said, noting progress in grid modernization, customer experience, affordability, and digital transformation, with reliability, resiliency and affordability as key priorities.”
The chamber said Guam’s swift recovery highlighted “a model that works” and that GovGuam should learn from it.
The business sector noted the government’s practice of discussing infrastructure “only when something breaks.”
“Budgets expand when a crisis hits. Repairs happen when failure becomes unavoidable. And then, as time passes, maintenance is pushed aside until the next breakdown. That cycle is expensive, disruptive and entirely preventable,” the chamber said, stressing that public infrastructure require ongoing maintenance.
“This is why the Chamber continues to emphasise a simple standard for government budgeting: it must include deliberate, recurring funding for operations and maintenance, and it must include planning that prevents facilities from slowly deteriorating,” the chamber said.
“Capital projects may be necessary and important, but capital without maintenance is a broken promise. Guam cannot build its way out of deterioration if it refuses to maintain what it owns,” it added……PACNEWS
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The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Pacific climate experts convene in Fiji to assess recent La Niña impacts
NADI, 04 MAY 2026 (SPREP)–Loss of life, damage to agricultural crops, coral reefs and domestic and commercial property damages were among the impacts reported at the 18th Pacific Islands Climate Outlook Forum (PICOF-18), in Nadi, Fiji, bringing together climate scientists, oceanographers and sector representatives from across the region.
The two-day forum, organised by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) Pacific Regional Climate Centre Network (RCC-N) including the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environmental Program (SPREP), reviewed climate and ocean conditions from October 2025 to April 2026 and produced consensus-based outlooks for May to October 2026.
Opening the forum, SPREP’s Director of Climate Science and Information, Salesa Nihmei, called on delegates to remember those who had perished in recent months.
“In the weeks and months just passed, our Pacific family has endured harrowing hazards. Tropical cyclones, storms, swells, and the raw fury of nature have tested our shores, our homes, and our spirit. But more than that, we have lost loved ones,” Nihmei shared with delegates.
Country reports presented at PICOF-18 showcased extreme events over October 2025 to April 2026. La Niña conditions, combined with the peak of the wet/warm season, drove an increased frequency of extreme rainfall events, marine heatwaves, and coastal hazards across Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia in the South Pacific La Niña impacts were also reported across the north tropical Pacific.
In Melanesia alone, Papua New Guinea bore the heaviest toll, with 21 lives lost in the Kukas landslide and a further six fatalities from flooding in Madang Province.
Fiji, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands also recorded flooding deaths, while a waterspout destroyed homes in Sigatoka’s Korolevu Village.
New Caledonia endured extreme heat that placed vulnerable populations, including elderly residents, under strain.
Across Polynesia, Niue recorded 702.7 millimetres of rainfall in November 2025 alone, the highest monthly total in more than 120 years. Samoa experienced repeated flooding causing road damage, landslides, water contamination and crop losses across multiple districts.
Tonga faced a prolonged marine heatwave from January to March, coral bleaching on Tongatapu’s reefs, waterspouts (ahiohio) in Ha’apai and the passage of Tropical Cyclone Urmil.
In Tuvalu, wind gusts from a convergence zone event severely damaged 49 homes on Nanumea Island, with a further 52 houses still under assessment, and king tides inundated low-lying areas, including the premises of the national meteorological service.
In Micronesia, flooding cut off airport access roads, damaged infrastructure and causeways, and contaminated groundwater supplies in Kiribati.
Ko Barrett, Deputy Secretary-General of the WMO addressed the delegates of PICOF-18 via video conference, said “The WMO State of the Global Climate Report for 2025 confirms 2015 to 2025 were the hottest 11 years on record, while extreme weather continues to affect millions of people and cost billions of dollars globally. In this context, the Pacific continues to demonstrate strong leadership, with the PICOF serving as a model of coordination.”
In addition to the rainfall and cyclone impacts, the ocean review, Dr Grant Smith from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology reported that sea surface temperatures were above normal across much of the western, northern and southern Pacific. Marine heatwaves strengthened over the review period, reaching the “strong” category across the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of the Marshall Islands by March 2026.
Barrett reaffirmed WMO’s commitment to supporting the Pacific RCC Network and highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at closing the gap between global climate products and local decision-making in Pacific Island communities.
Nihmei emphasised that the human cost underscored the critical importance of the forum’s work.
“Platforms like PICOF are about supporting climate scientists at National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) and giving our communities the warning they need to reach safety. They are about empowering NMHSs to forecast earlier, communicate clearer, and prepare better,” he said.
“When we strengthen these platforms, we strengthen the chain of survival from the global forecasting centre all the way to the last family in the last village on the last atoll.”
PICOF-18 will produce a Regional Climate and Ocean Outlook Statement covering May to October 2026, including atmospheric, ocean and tropical cyclone forecasts for the western Pacific. This consensus statement will guide Pacific Island NMHSs as they develop their own national climate bulletins and advisories.
The forum brought together technical experts from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, Earth Sciences New Zealand, APEC Climate Centre, Meteo-France, Australian Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Pacific Community (SPC), Seoul National University and the University of Hawaii, alongside meteorologists and climate officers from Pacific Island countries across Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia. Sector representatives present at the meeting are the Vanuatu Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Pacific Catastrophe Risk Insurance Company (PCRIC) and UN ESCAP.
The two-day forum was supported by the European Union Intra-ACP ClimSA programme (ClimSA) project, Australia and New Zealand Aid funded Climate and Oceans Support Program in the Pacific (COSPPac), Republic of Korea-Pacific Islands Climate Prediction Services (ROK-PI CliPS 3) project, and UNEP Enhancing Climate Information and Knowledge Services for Resilience in 5 Island Countries in the Pacific (UNEP CIS-Pac
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Fiji and SPC Sign €240,000 grant to assess climate Loss and Damage in agriculture
SUVA, 04 MAY 2026 (SPC)—– Climate change is already affecting how food is produced in Fiji, with saltwater intrusion, shifting rainfall patterns and extreme weather reducing agricultural productivity in vulnerable areas.
In response, the Fiji Government and the Pacific Community (SPC) have signed a €240,000 (FJD$604,920) grant agreement to assess climate-related loss and damage in the agriculture sector, with a focus on rice farming in Macuata Province.
The agreement marks the start of Fiji’s first sector-specific loss and damage assessment in agriculture. It will generate evidence on how climate hazards are affecting production systems, land and water resources, and rural livelihoods, and how these impacts can be addressed through policy and investment.
The project is funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark as part of its support to Pacific Island countries on loss and damage.
Climate pressures are reshaping agricultural systems in Fiji. Saltwater intrusion is reducing soil productivity in low-lying areas, rainfall variability is disrupting planting cycles, changes in temperature and rainfall are impacting pest and disease loads on crops, and extreme weather is increasing crop losses.
Over time, these changes reduce yields and place pressure on households that depend on agriculture for income and food. Across the Pacific, many households rely on locally produced food and natural resources for their livelihoods and food security
Fiji’s Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Lynda Tabuya, said the assessment responds directly to these realities.
“Across Fiji, farmers are dealing with changing rainfall patterns, saltwater intrusion and more frequent extreme events. This work will help ensure those impacts are reflected in how we plan, invest and respond.”
The assessment will combine field-based case studies with policy and financing analysis to better understand these impacts and identify practical responses. It is designed to support national planning and strengthen Fiji’s engagement in international discussions on loss and damage.
Non-Resident Ambassador of Denmark to Fiji, Ingrid Dahl-Madsen, said Denmark is supporting Pacific countries to strengthen how they respond to climate impacts.
“Denmark is proud to stand together with the Pacific in the fight against climate change and in supporting Pacific countries to better understand and respond to climate impacts. Strengthening evidence on loss and damage in key sectors such as agriculture is an important step towards informed decision-making and effective climate action.”
The assessment is part of Fiji’s broader efforts to strengthen its understanding of and response to climate-related loss and damage in key sectors such as agriculture.
In this context, loss and damage refer to the impacts of climate change that are already affecting production systems and livelihoods, including both immediate losses, such as crop failure, and longer-term changes, such as declining soil quality, reduced water availability, and shifts in growing conditions.
In Fiji, these impacts are becoming more evident in coastal and low-lying farming areas, where saltwater intrusion and changing rainfall patterns are affecting productivity over time.
Director of the Land Resources Division, SPC, Karen Mapusua, said that agricultural systems in the Pacific are increasingly exposed to climate variability and long-term change.
“What we are seeing are not isolated events, but ongoing shifts in soil conditions, water availability and crop productivity. Strengthening the evidence base is critical to identifying practical responses that support farmers and food systems.”
The project will be implemented in partnership with Fiji’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways. It was selected through a regional technical review process and developed with support from climate finance advisers working with SPC through programmes funded by Australia and New Zealand.
This work forms part of SPC’s broader support to Pacific Island countries to strengthen evidence on loss and damage, improve planning, and connect national priorities to climate finance…..PACNEWS
Media Contacts: Sunayna Nandini, Information and Communications Officer, Pacific Community (SPC), Climate Change and Sustainability Division| sunaynan@spc.int
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Better forecasts, better decisions: Pacific Forecasters strengthen seasonal climate services for communities and sectors
NADI, 04 MAY 2026 (SPREP)—When a seasonal forecast reaches a farmer in Vanuatu ahead of planting, the water authority in Palau before the dry season, or a disaster management office in Fiji as cyclone season approaches, the quality of that forecast matters. It shapes the decisions that protect livelihoods, food supplies and lives.
That is why climate and weather forecasters from 14 Pacific Island countries gathered in Nadi, Fiji, from 20 to 22 April for a three-day regional training workshop focused on the Pacific Island Countries Advanced Seasonal Outlook (PICASO), the region’s tailored seasonal prediction platform. The workshop, held as part of the pre-PICOF (Pacific Islands Climate Outlook Forum) training programme, was jointly hosted by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), the APEC Climate Centre (APCC) and Seoul National University, and brought together approximately 40 participants including operational meteorological officers and practitioners in water resources, public works and agriculture.
Building on earlier rounds of PICASO training, this workshop marked a deliberate shift from system familiarisation toward operational strengthening. The focus of this training was practical, focussing on how forecasters can use PICASO and the Consensus Climate Outlooks (CoCO) platform to produce seasonal outlooks that are not only technically robust but genuinely useful to the sectors and communities that rely on them.
For Pacific Island communities, seasonal climate information informs when crops are planted and harvested, how water supplies are managed through dry spells, whether fishing communities prepare for disrupted seasons, and how disaster management authorities position resources ahead of extreme weather. Across the Pacific, agriculture, fisheries, water and disaster preparedness sectors all depend on timely, well communicated forecasts from their National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) to guide planning and protect vulnerable populations.
A full day of the workshop was dedicated to sector engagement. In mixed breakout sessions, NMHS officers worked alongside regional sector representatives to examine how seasonal forecast products can better serve operational needs on the ground. Discussions focused on aligning forecast delivery with sector planning cycles, so that climate information arrives when decisions are actually being made.
Participants explored how to communicate probability and uncertainty in ways that are meaningful to non-technical users, identified sector specific climate thresholds that trigger operational decisions, and designed sector informed seasonal climate advisories using probabilistic forecasts.
Researchers from Seoul National University delivered sessions on the large-scale climate phenomena that drive seasonal variability across the Pacific, including El Niño diversity and the Madden Julian Oscillation (MJO). Understanding these drivers is essential for forecasters to interpret what prediction models are showing and to communicate seasonal outlooks with confidence to the sectors and communities that act on them.
PICASO sits alongside the Australian Bureau of Meteorology’s ACCESS-S system, delivered through the Climate and Oceans Support Program in the Pacific (COSPPac), as one of the region’s core seasonal prediction tools. While each system brings different strengths, together they complement and strengthen the regional approach to seasonal prediction and preparedness, giving NMHSs access to a wider range of dynamical and statistical model outputs from which to build their national seasonal outlooks.
This collaborative approach is underpinned by the WMO Pacific Regional Climate Centre (RCC) Network, which provides a coordinating framework for long range forecasting, climate monitoring, climate change projections, data services and training across the region. Both APCC and SPREP are consortium members of the RCC Network’s Long Range Forecasting Node, and the PICASO training programme forms part of their joint commitment to supporting Pacific NMHSs through the RCC Network to deliver better climate services and products to Pacific communities.
Acting APCC President Kim Hyung Jin said: “Through this training, the climate prediction and data analysis capabilities of practitioners in Pacific Island nations have been further strengthened. We will continue to build precise climate information services that reflect local demand to support climate crisis response and sustainable development.”
Due to their unique geographical characteristics, Pacific Island countries face significant exposure to climate variability and extreme weather, from tropical cyclones and drought to coastal inundation driven by sea level rise. For small island nations where a single severe season can devastate food production or overwhelm water systems, the ability to anticipate conditions weeks and months ahead is a critical line of defence. Strengthening seasonal forecast capacity across the region directly supports the resilience of the communities, industries and ecosystems that sustain Pacific livelihoods.
The workshop was delivered through a coordinated approach linking two complementary initiatives: the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) project on Enhancing Climate Information and Knowledge Services for Resilience in Pacific Island Countries, and the Republic of Korea–Pacific Islands Climate Prediction Services 3 Project. Operating the workshop as a joint event integrated both project workstreams, maximising training efficiency and regional cooperation. The meeting was also supported by the European Union-funded Climate Services and Related Applications Project (ClimSA).
PICASO, developed through a research and development partnership with the Korea Meteorological Administration, continues to evolve as a core tool in the Pacific’s seasonal climate services architecture. APCC has indicated that feedback gathered during the Nadi workshop will inform future system upgrades, ensuring the platform remains responsive to the operational realities and priorities of Pacific NMHSs and the sectors and communities they serve….PACNEWS
