In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — ‘Budget for the greedy, not the needy’: Pacific leaders clash over who wins in Budget 2026
2. PACIFIC — Fuel crisis on agenda as Vaovasamanaia visits Samoa
3. FIJI — Granting Major Citizenship Relief to Banabans
4. PACIFIC — Reuters executive Simon Robinson to replace Justin Stevens as ABC news director
5. FIJI — Leaders Warn Drug Crisis Threatens Fiji’s Future
6. PNG — State faces K500 million in legal claims
7. VAN — Vanuatu’s former police boss wants drug network leaders arrested, not just couriers
8. PACNEWS BIZ — Pacific Transport Ministers Convene in Majuro for Inaugural Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership Ministerial Meeting
9. PACNEWS BIZ — Solomon Islands Tourism Team meets new Minister for Culture & Tourism
10. PACNEWS BIZ — UK seeks to operationalise Shiprider agreement
11. PACNEWS BIZ — 25 Tourism projects secure funding
12. PACNEWS DIGEST — Global temperatures set to stay near record levels: UN weather agency
13. PACNEWS DIGEST — SPREP and PASO join hands for safer skies across the Blue Pacific
14. PACNEWS DIGEST — UN80 Initiative: ‘Critical new phase’ for UN reform effort
PAC – BUDGET: PMN PACNEWS 3: Fri 29 May 2026
‘Budget for the greedy, not the needy’: Pacific leaders clash over who wins in Budget 2026
WELLINGTON, 29 MAY 2026 (PMN) — The political fight over Budget 2026 has escalated with Pacific leaders using PMN’s Pacific Mornings show to launch fresh attacks and defences of the Government’s economic plan announced on Thursday.
In a lively post-Budget panel hosted by William Terite, Green MP Teanau Tuiono, Labour deputy leader Carmel Sepuloni, and National’s Angee Nicholas clashed over whether the Budget offers stability or leaves struggling Pacific families behind.
Nicholas defended the Coalition’s approach, calling it “a responsible Budget” delivered during difficult economic times.
“There wasn’t a splurge,” she said. “But it is responsible, it is timely, and it is exactly what New Zealand needs at this time.”
But Sepuloni said Pacific communities would bear the brunt of cuts across government services especially with Pacific unemployment sitting well above the national average.
“Our people are really struggling right now,” Sepuloni said. “Whether it be with retaining jobs, whether it be with getting paid enough, putting food on the table, securing housing, getting access to health care.
“The government have provided no relief, no reprieve for any of our Pacific families.”
Tuiono accused the Government of pouring money into defence while failing to properly invest in Pacific communities.
“Defence, once again, is the biggest winner here,” he said, criticising cuts to the Ministry for Pacific Peoples (MPP), saying Pacific-specific support was disappearing across government.
“We need specific, culturally appropriate programmes to support our people,” Tuiono said.
“New Zealand is a part of a family of Pacific nations. And this government is good about talking about all of that. But when the push comes to shove, where is it? Not in this Budget.”
Nicholas pushed back strongly, rejecting claims that Pacific communities had been ignored.
“To say that there is nothing in there for Pacific is actually really unfair.” She argued issues affecting Pacific families were the same pressures facing many New Zealanders, including affordability, housing, and safety.
The sharpest moment came when panellists were asked to describe the Budget in one line.
Tuiono responded: “I’d call this a budget for the greedy, not for the needy.”
The panel discussion came as Te Pāti Māori and ACT parties released sharply opposing reactions to the Budget.
Te Pāti Māori finance spokesperson Rawiri Waititi said Budget 2026 delivered “the lowest investment in Māori in 15 years”.
“Māori are not mentioned once in any of the Budget press releases,” Waititi said.
He accused the Government of “sacrificing the livelihoods of ordinary people to pay for war and prisons” and claimed growing inequality was leaving more whānau behind.
“This is not a story of the haves and have-nots anymore,” Waititi said. “This is a story of the have-nots and the have-yachts.”
Meanwhile, ACT leader David Seymour praised the Budget as proof the Government was restoring financial discipline.
“New Zealand is finally making the hard calls needed to restore discipline to Wellington,” Seymour said in a statement.
ACT highlighted spending on frontline health services, housing reforms, literacy programmes and cuts to government spending, saying the country could not solve cost of living pressures through “borrowing more” or “taxing more”.
The fresh reactions show how Budget 2026 is quickly becoming a key political battleground ahead of the election, with Pacific communities likely to remain at the centre of the debate over jobs, living costs and government priorities…. PACNEWS
PAC – INDEPENDENCE: SAMOA OBSERVER PACNEWS 3: Fri 29 May 2026
Fuel crisis on agenda as Vaovasamanaia visits Samoa
APIA, 29 MAY 2026 (SAMOA OBSERVER) — New Zealand Foreign Minister Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters is expected to arrive in Samoa on Sunday for the country’s 64th Independence celebrations, with the ongoing fuel crisis among the issues expected to be discussed with Samoan leaders.
In a statement, Peters said he would meet with Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs La’aulialemalietoa Polataivao Fosi Schmidt during his visit and use the opportunity to discuss the fuel crisis, New Zealand’s aid programme in Samoa and regional security.
“We look forward to joining Samoa in commemorating this important event. We highly value New Zealand’s warm and close friendship with Samoa,” Peters said.
The visit comes as Samoa continues to monitor fuel supply concerns. In April, the Disaster Advisory Committee (DAC) recommended the government move to an amber alert level, one step below the highest red alert, citing declining fuel reserves and the risk of supply disruptions.
Under the amber alert framework, fuel allocation plans would be prepared for critical sectors including electricity generation, water supply, health services, telecommunications and emergency services.
This week’s Budget also included a $100 million (US$36.73 million) allocation to support the operations of the Electric Power Corporation and Samoa Water Authority, while electricity and water tariffs will remain unchanged despite concerns over fuel supply and global market conditions.
The government has said the funding will strengthen preparedness should global conditions worsen and help ensure the continued delivery of essential services.
Peters will attend official Independence Day events during his visit and is also scheduled to meet with the Prime Minister of Tonga, Lord Fakafanua, and the Ulu of Tokelau, Faipule Alapati Tavite, who will also be attending the celebrations.
Peters is expected to arrive in Samoa on Sunday to join Independence celebrations and will remain in the country until 2 June…. PACNEWS
FIJI – CITIZENSHIP: MAITV PACNEWS 3: Fri 29 May 2026
Granting Major Citizenship Relief to Banabans
SUVA, 29 MAY 2026 (MAITV) — Displaced Banaban people who call Fiji home can now secure full citizenship without the crushing weight of application fees, following a unanimous vote in Parliament late Thursday night.
The decision brings long-awaited relief to the community living on Rabi Island, whose ancestors were forced to relocate to Fiji eighty years ago after colonial phosphate mining left their original home uninhabitable.
By waiving all citizenship and naturalisation fees for Banabans over the next five years, the new law removes a financial barrier that has kept generations of families in a state of legal limbo, finally offering them a clear, affordable path to formal identity and belonging.
The passing of the Immigration, Passport and Citizenship Amendment Bills capped off a late-night session to close Parliament’s May sitting.
For Rabi community leaders, the fee waiver is an emotional victory, acknowledging the unique history of a people who have contributed to Fiji’s fabric for decades.
Before last night’s vote, securing citizenship was an uphill battle for most Banaban families due to a steep administrative and financial hurdle.
Standard naturalisation and application fees in Fiji often cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. For many, paying these non-refundable fees for multiple family members was simply unaffordable.
Overlapping immigration laws between Fiji and their ancestral ties to Kiribati caused widespread confusion, leaving many families hesitant or unable to formalise their status.
By defining the Banaban community explicitly under the law and dropping all fees for five years, Parliament has effectively dissolved decades of uncertainty.
While the humanitarian waiver for Banabans was the centerpiece, the broader legislative package also modernises Fiji’s national security.
Maximum fines for tampering with passports or falsifying travel documents have increased to $100,000 (US$50,000), along with prison sentences of up to 10 years.
Airlines are now required to share passenger data with Fiji immigration before flights land, using the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS).
Legally recognised refugees in Fiji will now receive free, five-year international travel documents to prevent them from being trapped in stateless isolation.
Immigration officials received updated legal mandates to handle custody and deportations more efficiently, clearing out backlogs.
With the conclusion of last night’s session, the May sitting ends, a modern lockdown of Fiji’s borders, paired with an overdue hand of reassurance to a community that has spent generations looking for a permanent place to call home…. PACNEWS
PAC – MEDIA: THE GUARDIAN PACNEWS 3: Fri 29 May 2026
Reuters executive Simon Robinson to replace Justin Stevens as ABC news director
CANBERRA, 29 MAY 2026 (THE GUARDIAN) — The ABC has confirmed a top news executive from Reuters, Simon Robinson, has been appointed as news director of the ABC, after Guardian Australia revealed the surprise appointee on Thursday morning.
Robinson will join the ABC in September, four months after Justin Stevens resigned abruptly after four years in the role, citing personal and professional reasons.
Robinson said he grew up listening to and watching ABC News and he was delighted the role brought him home.
“As a passionate believer in the power of fact-based, independent journalism, I believe the ABC plays a pivotal role in providing Australians with the reliable reporting we all need,” Robinson said.
Stevens’ resignation on Wednesday was a shock and was effective immediately.
At Senate estimates on Thursday, the managing director of the ABC, Hugh Marks, refused to confirm or deny that he threatened to terminate Stevens if he didn’t resign.
Instead Marks revealed that he held a meeting with Stevens about a “very serious matter”.
He said he didn’t know where that information would have come from, given there were only two, possibly three, people at the meeting. “I don’t make threats, senator,” he said.
Senator Sarah Henderson asked if it was true that he had threatened to terminate Stevens if he didn’t resign.
Marks replied: “Senator, I think it’s inappropriate for me to go into the details of individual discussions with Stevens, you know, about a very serious matter in this forum, but I think the outcome is Stevens has resigned, and we will be in due course in [the] near future making an appointment.
Marks also strongly suggested the changing of the guard at the top of ABC News signalled a period of change at the broadcaster.
“It is an opportunity for us to move forward and look at a refreshed and rejuvenated output as we work out what you know the future of the ABC is,” Marks said.
Marks said Stevens, who had responsibility for 2,000 journalists across the country, felt it was time to move on and he did not push back on a suggestion by senator Sarah Henderson that Stevens was “encouraged to resign”.
“Stevens felt, you know, it was the right time for him to move on and pursue other careers, and I think it’s an opportunity, obviously, for the ABC to enter into a new phase of operations, where we look to, you know, refresh and rejuvenate our output for what might be, you know, the next 20 years to make sure that we’re fit for the future,” Marks told Senate estimates.
Marks was asked twice by senators to confirm Guardian Australia’s report that Robinson had been appointed.
Marks declined to confirm or deny the appointment and denied the ABC had leaked the story to Guardian Australia.
“I assume that speculation has led to someone trying to get the jump on the announcement. So [it was] good journalism.”
On Wednesday, Marks said Stevens had made an “incredible commitment” to the ABC over 19 years, including ensuring ABC News was the No 1 digital news provider.
“I am grateful to have seen the strength of Justin’s editorial instincts and to have observed his commitment to the ABC and audiences,” Marks said. “I wish him every success in the future.”
Robinson began his career at Time Inc in Sydney as a factchecker on Who Weekly and went overseas where he forged a career with Time as a correspondent, bureau chief and editor.
He has been at Reuters for 16 years and is currently deputy to the editor in chief of the 2,600 strong newsroom.
Two sources with knowledge of the appointment told Guardian Australia Robinson had been at Ultimo recently and the ABC chair, Kim Williams, was a big fan.
It’s understood Williams knew Robinson from his time as chairman of the Thomson Reuters Founders Share Company board.
Williams retired as chairman of the independent body tasked with preserving the news agency’s independence in January.
Robinson says in his biography on LinkedIn that he helps shape Reuters’ editorial vision: “I can reshape a news story or transform an organisation alike. I have been a correspondent, news editor, and investigative editor. I have years of experience as a newsroom leader and working on strategy. As the Deputy to Reuters Editor-in-Chief, I help manage a newsroom of 2,600 professionals and spearhead our digital and publishing initiatives which help shape news seen by billions of people around the world every day.”
In a farewell email to staff on Wednesday, Stevens said: “There is no more complex news organisation in the country, no more scrutinised institution, and few so laden with public expectations.
“In that context, I have sought to strengthen and defend our journalism without being blind to our stumbles; to meet the state of constant change in the digital age; and to improve our culture in News to one where we hold ourselves to the same standards as we do of others in the broader community.”…. PACNEWS
FIJI – DRUG FIGHT: FIJI TV PACNEWS 3: Fri 29 May 2026
Leaders Warn Drug Crisis Threatens Fiji’s Future
SUVA, 29 MAY 2026 (FIJI TV) — The growing threat of illegal drugs and its impact on young people emerged as a major concern during the 2026 Ratu Sukuna Day national celebrations in Lautoka today, with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka warning that the issue now poses a serious challenge to Fiji’s social fabric.
Speaking at Churchill Park during the national celebrations this morning, Gavoka said drug abuse was no longer solely a policing issue but one that demanded collective action from communities, families, schools, faith groups, and national institutions.
“Drugs rob young people of purpose. They weaken families. They erode discipline and hope,” Gavoka told hundreds gathered for the event.
Using the legacy of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna as a reference point, Gavoka said Fiji’s founding statesman believed a strong nation could only be built through educated minds, disciplined communities, and united people.
He said protecting young people must remain a national priority, stressing that Fiji risks compromising its future if more youth become vulnerable to substance abuse and social pressures.
“We must continue investing in education, youth empowerment, sports, faith based initiatives, and economic opportunities that give our young people a pathway towards dignity and purpose,” he said.
The Deputy Prime Minister said leadership today requires more than economic growth and development, arguing that nations are increasingly judged by how they respond to social and moral challenges affecting their populations.
His comments come amid increasing public concern over drug-related offences, youth involvement in criminal activities, and the broader social impacts of illicit substances across communities.
While the event celebrated Ratu Sukuna’s contributions to nation-building and leadership, the address shifted focus toward contemporary challenges, particularly the need to ensure young people remain equipped with opportunities and support systems.
Gavoka urged young Fijians to draw inspiration from Ratu Sukuna’s life, saying success was built through discipline, education, courage, humility, and service.
This year’s Ratu Sukuna Day theme, “Ratu Sukuna, The Vision to Build, The Courage to Lead,” was used to reinforce calls for stronger national unity and collective responsibility in addressing issues affecting future generations…. PACNEWS
PNG – POLITICS: NBC PNG PACNEWS 3: Fri 29 May 2026
State faces K500 million in legal claims
PORT MORESBY, 29 MAY 2026 (NBC PNG) — Papua New Guinea’s State legal system is facing major pressure, with the State now owing close to K500 million (US$114.84 million) to plaintiffs and claimants due to poorly defended court matters and lack of coordination between government agencies and state lawyers.
Solicitor General George Akia says, the growing number of successful claims against the State has become a serious concern, prompting urgent programmes within the Office of the Solicitor General under the Attorney General’s Office.
And one of which is the client outreach programme whereby Highlands Region played host to its first round of client outreach programme in Mt Hagen from the 26th May to 27th May 2026 gathering all heads of government agencies mainly from Police, CS, PHAs, Provincial Administration and Department of Works and Highways.
The Office of the Solicitor General earlier this week hosted a client outreach programme aimed at improving state advocacy and strengthening legal representation for the Government in courts across the country.
Solicitor General George Akia said for many years there has been a major disconnect between government departments and state lawyers, resulting in weak communication, poor preparation of cases and lack of collaboration.
Akia said many government agencies failed to work closely with state lawyers, while legal officers also struggled to maintain proper engagement with their clients.
He said this breakdown in coordination has contributed to many State cases being poorly defended in court, leading to millions of kina in compensation claims and court settlements against the Government.
“Right now, the State owes close to K500 million (US$114.84 million) to plaintiffs and claimants because many matters were not properly defended or managed well from the beginning,” Akia said.
He said the situation has placed huge financial pressure on the Government and highlighted serious lack of instruction and collaboration within the State legal system and its clients.
Akia stressed the Office of the Solicitor General represents the State in all courts and handles legal matters involving government agencies, but the lack of partnership and cooperation over the years has created major challenges.
He said the client outreach programme is designed to bridge that gap by improving communication, building stronger partnerships with government departments and creating a more effective structure for state advocacy.
“We want government agencies to work closely with us so we can defend State matters properly and reduce unnecessary claims against the Government,” he said.
The Solicitor General described the outreach programme as a long-term strategy to improve legal services and protect State interests more effectively in the future…. PACNEWS
VAN – DRUG FIGHT: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS 3: Fri 29 May 2026
Vanuatu’s former police boss wants drug network leaders arrested, not just couriers
PORT VILA, 29 MAY 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST) — Former Police Commissioner Joshua Bong has called on the current Commissioner of Police, Kalshem Bongran, to redirect how the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF) responds to drug trafficking cases.
Bong said arrests so far have mainly targeted drug couriers, illicit drugs and vessels, while those behind trafficking networks continue to operate.
He said police should focus beyond those physically transporting drugs and target those organising and financing the trade.
The call follows the second yacht seizure involving suspects by the VPF on Wednesday night.
Minister of Internal Affairs Andrew Solomon Napuat confirmed the arrest of the vessel and its crew members.
Commissioner Bongran and the Police Media Unit were unable to comment on Bong’s remarks and details of the yacht Thursday.
However, a reliable source said the vessel is now anchored at Port Vila Harbour and investigations are ongoing.
A former police officer and investigator who declined to be named said more arrests of drug couriers are expected following stronger enforcement and increased penalties in Fiji.
He said Vanuatu and Solomon Islands have become transit points because penalties in those jurisdictions are lighter compared with Fiji.
The former officer said it would not be surprising if those arrested this week, along with two others detained in Havannah in March 2026, are later released.
In that earlier case, police intercepted a yacht, Inner Smile, carrying two suspects — a Lithuanian and a British national — allegedly with 1.6 tonnes of cocaine.
The cocaine has since been secured under tight guard at the Vanuatu Mobile Force Cook Barracks, the Daily Postunderstands.
The Daily Post spotted the two men arrested on the Inner Smile yacht outside Port Vila Magistrate Court last week while they were waiting for their Preliminary Inquiry.
The former investigator said it would not be surprising if the Havannah suspects, along with two Turkish and Chinese nationals arrested in TORBA Province for drug trafficking, are later allowed to move freely in Port Vila.
A reliable source told the Daily Post that some of the suspects are now moving freely in Port Vila and staying in high-cost accommodation in Nambatu Lagoon and hotel rooms in town.
Questions have been raised about who is funding their accommodation and daily living expenses, the source said…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
PAC – SHIPPING: MCST PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 29 May 2026
Pacific Transport Ministers Convene in Majuro for Inaugural Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership Ministerial Meeting
MAJURO, 29 MAY 2026 (MCST) — Transport Ministers and senior government officials, from across the Pacific will convene in Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands, from 09–11 June 2026 for the inaugural Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership (PBSP) Ministerial Meeting.
The Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership is an ambitious country-driven initiative for a large-scale climate finance investment to catalyse a transition to sustainable, resilient, and low carbon shipping. While shipping is the absolute lifeline for all Pacific island and archipelagic States, it has not so far been a focus of regional programmes to slash dependency on increasingly expensive imported diesel and reduce climate change causing emissions.
The PBSP will support its member states with the resources and opportunities to collaboratively develop and submit National Action Plans for their shipping transitions to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). Implementing these plans will come at significant cost and the PBSP aims to enable collective access by member states to global climate finance modalities and sustainable maritime technologies required for their domestic shipping transitions.
Ministers will also consider a $300 million application to the Green Climate Fund to finance the building and operation of a demonstration fleet of low carbon vessels in participating PBSP member countries. The Juren Ae, the new Marshallese inter-island freighter, is achieving over 50 percent fuel savings using a mixture of sails, solar and innovative ship design. The next step is to introduce a range of low carbon vessels of types and sizes in common use throughout the region.
In Majuro, representatives of the ten Pacific countries will work through formal agreement on the PBSP Charter and establish the PBSP Council and Office. The Ministerial meeting is the first of its kind and marks a significant milestone in advancing this coordinated, multi-country approach.
The Republic of Fiji and the Republic of the Marshall Islands are serving as Co-Chairs of the Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership and will jointly lead the meetings.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, the Marshall Islands’ Presidential Special Envoy for Maritime Decarbonisation Albon Ishoda said the Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership represents a transformative opportunity for Pacific nations to collectively shape the future of maritime transport in the region.
“The Pacific depends on shipping for our survival, our trade, our connectivity, and our economic development. As custodians of one of the world’s largest ocean region, we must ensure our maritime future is sustainable, resilient, affordable, and aligned with our climate ambitions.
The Pacific has worked hard over many years to drive a transition for international shipping, the PBSP is our blueprint for our domestic transition”.
Pacific States for the past decade spearheaded International Maritime Organisation (IMO) negotiations over decarbonising the international shipping sector, and are widely acknowledged as being catalytic to driving ambition for global change. Now is the time to ensure that the States advocating for a just and equitable transition at the IMO are not left behind at home. The Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership aims to provide a coordinated and collective multi-country approach to ensure Pacific member nations achieve a full maritime transition by 2050…. PACNEWS
SOL – TOURISM: TAVULI NEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 29 May 2026
Solomon Islands Tourism Team meets new Minister for Culture & Tourism
HONIARA, 29 MAY 2026 (TAVULI NEWS) — The newly appointed Minister for Culture & Tourism, James Bonuga, has held his first meeting with the team responsible for driving the Solomon Islands tourism agenda.
Minister Bonuga took time out from his busy schedule to meet with Ministry of Culture & Tourism (MCT) Permanent Secretary Bunyan Sivoro, MCT Director of Tourism Greg Auta’a, Tourism Solomons Acting CEO Dagnal Dereveke, and staff at the National Tourism Office headquarters in Honiara.
Welcoming the minister to his new portfolio, Permanent Secretary Sivoro provided an overview of the ministry’s mandates, relevant legislation and regulations, as well as current strategic plans guiding the sector.
The briefing also included Tourism Solomons’ current marketing focus and an update on international visitor arrivals. Visitor numbers reached 28,548 last year, representing an increase of more than 13 percent and placing the country just 382 visitors short of the record 28,930 arrivals recorded in 2019.
Minister Bonuga was also briefed on the Solomon Islands’ current tourism positioning and the strength of its key unique selling points, which continue to shape the National Tourism Office’s strategic direction and marketing activities.
Acknowledging the challenges that remain for the tourism sector, Minister Bonuga emphasised the importance of stronger collaboration between the Ministry of Culture & Tourism, Tourism Solomons, and the wider tourism industry. He expressed appreciation for the update, recognised the work already achieved, and said he looked forward to working constructively with the tourism team moving forward.
Minister Bonuga replaces outgoing Minister for Culture & Tourism Choylin Yim Douglas, the first woman to hold the portfolio since her appointment in 2024. During her tenure, Yim Douglas played a key role in securing the largest tourism budget in Solomon Islands history, increasing annual funding from SBD10 million (US$1.24 million) to SBD46 million (US$5.72 million)…. PACNEWS
PNG – MARINE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 29 May 2026
UK seeks to operationalise Shiprider agreement
PORT MORESBY, 29 MAY 2026 (THE NATIONAL) — The United Kingdom (UK) is looking for opportunities to operationalise the UK-Papua New Guinea Shiprider Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) following its signing in September last year.
Deputy defence adviser Lt-Col Matthew Williams said they also wanted to develop their relationship with the PNG Defence Force in strengthening marine capability.
“The Shiprider MoU was signed last year and we’re looking for opportunities to operationalise that MoU and develop our relationship with the PNGDF,” he said.
The agreement sets out how the PNG and UK military personnel could conduct joint operations to enforce maritime laws in the Pacific.
Williams visited the HMS Tamar Thursday with British High Commissioner to PNG Paul Eastwood and ship captain Commander Tom Lindsey. The ship is used for maritime exclusive economic zone enforcement operations.
It left Port Moresby Thursday.
Lindsey explained that the vessel could provide a boarding and interdiction capability against illegal fishing activity and countering transnational crime and smuggling activity.
He said the HMS Tamar and HMS Spey had been on a mission in the Indo-Pacific region demonstrating a continuous presence of not just the UK defence force but also the UK Government.
“This is my first time here – but not the ship’s. It was here three years ago. Since then, we have covered the entire operating area of Japan all the way down to New Zealand in the south as far west as Malaysia and as far east as Pitcairn Island in the Central Pacific,” he said…. PACNEWS
FIJI – TOURISM: FBC NEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 29 May 2026
25 Tourism projects secure funding
SUVA, 29 MAY 2026 (FBC NEWS) — The Pilot Tourism Micro and Small Enterprises (MSE) Fund has almost fully used up its allocated budget.
Most of the approved grants have already been committed and disbursed.
This was according to a written response tabled in Parliament by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka.
The response was provided to a parliamentary question from Ratu Josaia Niudamu, who sought details on applications, funding allocations and beneficiary categories under the programme.
The Ministry confirmed that the pilot fund, which supports Micro and Small tourism operators, received 32 applications in the latest round for the 2025–2026 financial year. Of these, 25 were approved for funding, amounting to $399,648 (US$199,824) against an allocation of $400,000 (US$200,000).
According to the Minister, $365,910.55 (US$182,955.28) has already been disbursed, representing 91 per cent of the approved funding. The remaining balance has been committed to ongoing payments and deferred projects.
The report shows that demand for the fund remains concentrated in established tourism regions. The Western Division recorded the highest number of applications, led by Ba Province, followed by Nadroga/Navosa and Ra. Northern Division participation also increased, particularly from Cakaudrove and Macuata.
Tourism-related businesses that benefited from the scheme span tour operations, marine and adventure tourism, homestays, and cultural experiences.
Gavoka also noted a rise in diving-related proposals, alongside investments in equipment upgrades, safety improvements, and renewable energy systems such as solar installations.
On the business profile, small enterprises accounted for 58 per cent of applicants while micro businesses made up 27 per cent. Women-led applications stood at 18 per cent, reflecting low but notable participation.
The Minister stated that several applications were deferred due to funding limits, as commitments reached the programme’s $400,000 (US$200,000) ceiling. It said this was managed through a staged selection process, including a panel review held in November 2025.
Gavoka also highlighted that more than half of participating businesses have undergone training in areas such as business continuity, digital skills, and tourism operations. These are aimed at improving long-term viability and service quality in the sector.
The Ministry said monitoring and evaluation work is continuing to assess the effectiveness of the pilot programme as the Government considers its future direction and possible expansion…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Global temperatures set to stay near record levels: UN weather agency
NEW YORK, 29 MAY 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) — The world is heading into another period of dangerous heat, a new UN report warns on Thursday, and it’s nearly certain global temperatures over the next five years will stay “at or near record levels” as climate change accelerates across land and sea.
A report produced by the UK Met Office and released on Thursday by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) said there is an 86 per cent chance that at least one year between 2026 and 2030 will surpass 2024 as the hottest year ever recorded.
It also found there is a 91 per cent likelihood that average global temperatures will temporarily exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels during at least one of the next five years.
The 1.5°C mark is a key benchmark under the Paris Agreement on climate change, with scientists warning that exceeding it for prolonged periods would sharply increase the risks of extreme weather, ecosystem collapse, food insecurity and displacement.
Climate goals still attainable
Such temporary breaches do not mean the Paris Agreement’s long-term climate goals are unattainable since the accord refers to warming sustained over decades rather than individual years.
Still, the forecasts underscore the accelerating pace of global warming and the increasing frequency of extreme heat events.
Annual global temperatures between 2026 and 2030 are expected to range between 1.3°C and 1.9°C above the 1850-1900 average.
The report said there is also a 75 per cent chance that the average warming across the entire five-year period will exceed 1.5°C.
“There is an El Niño predicted for the end of 2026, which increases the chances of the following year, 2027, being the next record-breaking year,” said Leon Hermanson, the report’s lead author.
Arctic warming accelerates
Projections that the Arctic will continue heating far faster than the rest of the planet are also ringing alarm bells.
Temperatures across the region during the next five northern hemisphere winters are forecast to average 2.8°C above the 1991-2020 baseline – more than three-and-a-half times the projected global average increase over the same period.
Scientists also predicted continued declines in Arctic sea ice, particularly in the Barents Sea, Bering Sea and Sea of Okhotsk. Sea ice loss matters because it accelerates warming by reducing the Arctic’s ability to reflect sunlight, while also disrupting ecosystems, weather patterns and livelihoods in polar regions.
Shifting rainfall patterns
The report pointed to widening shifts in global rainfall patterns consistent with a warming climate.
Higher-than-average rainfall is expected in parts of the Sahel, northern Europe, Alaska and Siberia between 2026 and 2030, while drier conditions are forecast for the Amazon region and parts of the subtropics.
Wetter conditions are also likely at higher northern latitudes during upcoming winter seasons.
The forecasts are intended to help governments, regional climate centres and national weather agencies plan for risks that are no longer distant projections, but increasingly part of the world’s near-term climate outlook…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
SPREP and PASO join hands for safer skies across the Blue Pacific
HONIARA, 29 MAY 2026 (SPREP) — Safe air travel across the Pacific depends on more than aircraft and airports; it depends on accurate, reliable and sustainable weather services that connect island nations, support disaster response and protect lives every day.
This was the central message as meteorological and civil aviation leaders from across the Pacific gathered in Honiara, Solomon Islands this week for the Joint Pacific Islands Meteorological Services and Civil Aviation Authorities (CAA) Directors Meeting.
Solomon Islands Government Deputy Secretary, Agnetha Vave Karamui said the Pacific could not afford to treat aviation weather services as an afterthought.
“Across our Blue Pacific, aviation connects our people, supports emergency response, trade, tourism and national development. Behind every safe flight is a strong meteorological service, and strengthening these services is essential for the safety and resilience of our region,” said Karamui.
“Compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation and the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) standards is not optional. It is fundamental to aviation safety, operational credibility, and international confidence in our aviation systems.”
With aviation serving as a lifeline for many Pacific countries, the meeting highlighted the urgent need to strengthen aviation meteorological services amid growing operational pressures, workforce shortages, aging infrastructure, increasing climate-related risks and cost recovery for sustainable operations.
Hosted by the Government of Solomon Islands, the Joint Pacific Islands Met and CAA Directors Meeting was organised in partnership with the Pacific Aviation Safety Office (PASO) and the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) through its Weather Ready Pacific (WRP) Programme.
“Many Pacific Island countries continue to face challenges in maintaining compliance due to limited technical capacity, aging infrastructure, workforce shortages, increasing operational demands, and constrained national budgets which needs special attention,” added Karamui.
The meeting brought together Directors of Meteorological Services, Civil Aviation Authorities, regional organisations, technical partners and development agencies to discuss compliance with international aviation weather standards, long-standing infrastructure gaps and sustainable financing solutions for the region.
PASO Council Chair and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ministry of Works, Transport, and Infrastructure (MWTI), Samoa, Fui Tupai Mau Simanu said strengthening aviation meteorological services was fundamental to maintaining confidence in Pacific aviation systems.
“Reliable aviation weather services are not optional; they are essential for safe and efficient air travel across our region. Stronger collaboration between meteorological services, civil aviation authorities and partners is critical if we are to address existing deficiencies and build resilient aviation systems for the future,” he said.
Pacific Met Directors and CAA leaders acknowledged that while many Pacific Island countries continue to benefit from donor-supported upgrades to forecasting systems, observation networks and telecommunications infrastructure, maintaining these systems over the long term remains a major challenge.
Speaking on behalf of SPREP and PASO during the opening was Director of Climate Science and Information at SPREP, Salesa Nihmei. Nihmei touched on the importance of regional collaboration and Pacific-led ownership as critical to ensuring aviation weather services remain operational and sustainable into the future: “The Pacific faces unique challenges due to geography, scale and limited resources, but we also share a strong commitment to protecting our people and strengthening regional connectivity. This meeting is about finding practical solutions together to ensure aviation weather services remain reliable, sustainable and fit for purpose.”
Throughout the meeting, the importance of addressing compliance gaps with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) standards was highlighted, including strengthening coordination between MET Services and Civil Aviation Authorities, and improving sustainable financing and cost recovery approaches.
“Safe and reliable aviation across the Pacific depends on strong meteorological services, but also on our ability to work together as a region to close existing gaps and ensure long-term sustainability. PASO remains committed to supporting our member States to strengthen compliance, improve coordination, and build resilient systems that keep our skies safe,” said PASO General Manager Silimana’i Ueta Solomona.
The meeting also emphasised the need to include regional initiatives in these discussions such as Weather Ready Pacific (WRP), the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF), Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS), Partnerships for Aviation (P4A) and other partnerships supporting technical capacity, governance and infrastructure improvements across the Pacific.
Looking ahead, an important outcome from this meeting will be the development of a Pacific Aviation Meteorology Improvement Roadmap that will identify priority areas for collaborative action to strengthen aviation safety across the region.
SPREP and PASO have an Memorandum of Understanding formalising their shared commitment to improving Met Services for Pacific aviation. The Joint Pacific Islands Meteorological Services and Civil Aviation Authorities (CAA) Directors Meeting and Roadmap work is made possible through this partnership, and through the support of key partners and projects: the Governments of Australia, New Zealand, and Solomon Islands, as well as the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), New Zealand Met Service, WRP Programme, Intra-ACP Climate Services and Related Applications Programme (ClimSA), P4A, and CASA Australia.
The meeting was held at the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) Conference center in Honiara, Solomon Islands on 28 May 2026…. PACNEWS
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UN80 Initiative: ‘Critical new phase’ for UN reform effort
NEW YORK, 29 MAY 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) — UN chief António Guterres has outlined further progress in the wide-ranging UN80 Initiative, a major reform and restructuring project aimed at making the global body more effective, agile and better equipped to respond to global challenges.
On Thursday, Guterres told the General Assembly that reform is required because “inaction in the face of geopolitical turmoil would compound human suffering.”
Launched in March 2025, the initiative seeks to ensure that “every mandate, dollar and decision” delivers greater impact for people and the planet, at a time of growing demands and constrained resources.
The UN chief described the project as “a paradigm shift in how the UN system organises its work and collaborates for greater impact,” and declared that the project has now entered a critical new phase of decision-making and delivery.
Work already underway
A progress update released on Tuesday highlights the steps that have been taken to improve efficiency, review how mandates are implemented, and explore changes to the internal structure of the system, including the potential merger of some UN bodies.
Work to streamline operations within the UN Secretariat and beyond – including measures to reduce duplication and improve coordination – is already underway. These efforts form part of a broader push to modernise how the organisation operates.
The initiative also aims to simplify administrative processes and strengthen services across the UN system, with a focus on delivering faster and more cost-effective support to Member States.
Strengthening mandates and accountability
Another key pillar of the reform effort centres on how mandates – the tasks assigned by Member States – are designed, implemented and reviewed.
The report highlights ongoing work with national governments to improve transparency, reduce reporting burdens and better align mandates with resources and results.
With tens of thousands of mandates guiding how the UN operates, the review process is intended to ensure they remain relevant, coherent and focused on delivering measurable outcomes.
Member States central to next steps
Proposals for changes to the structure of the UN include closer alignment across departments and agencies, and stronger collaboration across the entities concerned with peace and security, development and human rights.
The initiative has identified the need for fewer silos and more integrated approaches, alongside new tools such as shared data platforms and strengthened coordination mechanisms.
However, decisions on changes to the structure of the UN rest with Member States, which will have the final say on priorities and implementation.
Describing UN80 as a “work in progress,” the Secretary-General has emphasised that sustained engagement is the way to create a more coherent and effective UN system.
As the initiative continues to evolve, its different strands are expected to come together to form a unified framework delivering stronger, more coordinated action…. PACNEWS
