In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — China warned Pacific missile sparks ‘strong concerns’
2. NZ — Prime Ministers of Samoa and New Zealand reaffirm enduring partnership
3. PACIFIC — Minister Tabuya hold bilateral talks with Pacific climate envoys and Australian Minister for Climate Change
4. PACIFIC — Fresh concerns over radioactive risks from deep sea mining near American Sāmoa
5. PACIFIC — Australia’s Youth Climate Champion connects with Samoan climate leaders
6. PALAU — Palau’s Australia Embassy to open in July or August, Whipps Says
7. FIJI — Fiji universities criticised for ignoring coup impacts
8. FIJI — FICAC abandons Fiji DPP director Christopher Pryde prosecution
9. PACNEWS BIZ — Naoero and Marshall Islands seal landmark commercial partnership
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Japan, NZ important markets to PNG: Airline
11. PACNEWS BIZ — National Reserve Bank of Tonga warns counterfeit $100 paʻanga banknotes are in circulation
12. PACNEWS BIZ — Brain drain after coups went beyond Indo-Fijians, TRC told
13. PACNEWS BIZ — State owes PNG Power nearly K200 million
14. PACNEWS DIGEST — UN expert mechanism advances dialogue on Indigenous languages
15. PACNEWS DIGEST — ‘Business as usual is a business of death’: UN adopts road safety pledge over U.S objection
PAC – DIPLOMACY: AAP PACNEWS 3: Wed 22 Jul 2026
China warned Pacific missile sparks ‘strong concerns’
MANILA, 22 JULY 2026 (AAP) — Australia has raised its concerns with China over its nuclear-capable missile test in the South Pacific, noting many of the region’s nations also shared the same view.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong met with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of ASEAN talks in Manila on Tuesday evening.
“You speak about the importance of mutual understanding. I agree, and I expect we will discuss our concerns … including around peace and stability in our region, safe and professional military conduct, and the importance of transparency and reassurance of intent,” Senator Wong said in opening remarks.
Senator Wong noted the “strong concerns” expressed by many Pacific Island countries about the submarine-launched missile earlier in July.
The two foreign ministers also discussed the importance of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
“You’ve often heard me say that we will cooperate where we can and disagree where we must, and we want to continue to engage because we believe that is in our national interest,” Senator Wong said.
Australia was only given a few hours’ notice by China of the test, which was launched within hours of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signing a new defence alliance with Fiji.
The missile is understood to have landed near Tuvalu.
Albanese slammed the launch as a “provocative act” while other Pacific nations including New Zealand, Tuvalu and Fiji condemned the incident.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale was standing beside his Australian counterpart in Honiara in early July when he said the test was “not the act of a friend”.
Albanese has previously flagged a strong statement would be issued by the Pacific Islands Forum, but the group’s disagreement on the wording of the text has resulted in a delay.
A foreign ministers’ meeting of the forum will be held in August, where the issue is likely to be discussed…. PACNEWS
NZ – DIPLOMACY: TALAMUA MEDIA PACNEWS 3: Wed 22 Jul 2026
Prime Ministers of Samoa and New Zealand reaffirm enduring partnership
WELLINGTON, 22 JULY 2026 (TALAMUA MEDIA) — Samoa Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataʻivao Fosi Schmidt, held bilateral talks with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Wellington as part of his official visit to New Zealand.
The meeting reaffirmed the close and enduring partnership between Samoa and New Zealand, with discussions focusing on labour mobility, economic cooperation, trade, regional collaboration, migration, and the strong people-to-people ties that have connected the two countries for generations.
The leaders also exchanged views on rugby union and rugby league, recognising the role sport continues to play in strengthening the relationship between Samoa and New Zealand.
A major focus of the discussions was labour mobility between Samoa and New Zealand. Both Prime Ministers acknowledged the significant contribution Samoan workers continue to make to New Zealand’s economy and reaffirmed their shared commitment to ensuring labour mobility programmes remain sustainable, responsive, and beneficial to both countries.
The leaders discussed the future of the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme, including opportunities to strengthen policy settings, enhance worker welfare and pastoral care, foster positive relationships between employers and employees, and ensure the programme continues to meet the evolving needs of workers, employers, and both Governments.
Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa shared feedback gathered during his recent consultations with Samoan seasonal workers and New Zealand employers in Hawke’s Bay, highlighting the importance of engaging directly with those participating in the programme to help inform future policy discussions and strengthen the long-term success of the RSE Scheme.
The Prime Ministers also discussed the importance of ensuring that Samoans who choose to make New Zealand their home are supported with opportunities for meaningful employment, education, skills development, and economic participation.
Both leaders acknowledged that strengthening these pathways will help individuals and families build secure, independent futures while continuing to make valuable contributions to New Zealand’s economy and society.
Discussions also covered the Samoa Quota Scheme, recognising its longstanding contribution to providing opportunities for Samoans to live and work in New Zealand.
The leaders explored opportunities to modernise and streamline aspects of the scheme, including making employment pathways more efficient for successful applicants through improved processing of employment offers and work documentation.
The Prime Ministers also discussed strengthening trade and commercial links between Samoa and New Zealand, with particular emphasis on improving the distribution of Samoan exports throughout New Zealand.
Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa highlighted the importance of expanding market access beyond the North Island to ensure Samoan products can reach communities across both the North and South Islands, particularly where Samoan and wider Pacific populations reside.
Both leaders acknowledged that strengthening trade connectivity would create greater opportunities for Samoan exporters, support local businesses, and further deepen the economic partnership between the two countries.
The meeting also included discussions on continued cooperation in supporting the people of Tokelau.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon thanked Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa for his recent official visit to Tokelau and acknowledged Samoa’s longstanding friendship and practical support for the territory.
Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa reaffirmed Samoa’s commitment to serving as Tokelau’s gateway to the world, highlighting Samoa’s strategic role in facilitating transport, logistics, and access to essential services.
He noted that Samoa is well placed to support Tokelau through the supply of petroleum, food, medical supplies, educational services, and other essential goods.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of the dedicated wharf at the Port of Apia for Tokelau’s vessels, reinforcing Samoa’s role as a vital logistical hub connecting Tokelau with the wider region.
The two leaders also discussed the Treaty of Friendship between Samoa and New Zealand, recognising its enduring significance as the foundation of the bilateral relationship.
Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa noted that officials have begun identifying key issues and areas for future discussion, acknowledging that it has now been 64 years since the Treaty was signed.
He observed that while the Treaty has served both countries well for more than six decades, Samoa and New Zealand have evolved considerably during that time.
Economic priorities, labour mobility, trade, regional cooperation, technology, and the broader international environment have all changed significantly since the Treaty came into force.
Both Prime Ministers acknowledged the value of considering how the Treaty can continue to reflect the realities and aspirations of the modern relationship, with further discussions expected following New Zealand’s upcoming General Election.
The meeting concluded with both Prime Ministers reaffirming their shared commitment to strengthening the Samoa–New Zealand partnership and continuing to work together across areas of mutual interest.
Their discussions reflected a common vision of deepening cooperation, expanding economic opportunities, strengthening regional collaboration, and ensuring the longstanding friendship between Samoa and New Zealand continues to deliver meaningful benefits for future generations…. PACNEWS
PAC – CLIMATE CHANGE: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS 3: Wed 22 Jul 2026
Minister Tabuya holds bilateral talks with Pacific climate envoys and Australian Minister for Climate Change
SYDNEY, 22 JULY 2026 (FIJI GOVT) — Fiji’s Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Lynda Tabuya this week held a series of bilateral meetings as part of Fiji’s ongoing preparations for the Third Climate Ministerial and the Pacific Pre-COP, to be hosted in Nadi this October ahead of COP31.
Minister Tabuya first met with Australia’s Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, to reaffirm the strong Fiji–Australia partnership in delivering a successful Pacific-led Pre-COP.
The two Ministers discussed progress by the Pacific Senior Officials Taskforce, preparations for the Pre-COP agenda and logistics, and the importance of ensuring the event reflects Pacific priorities, culture and values as the region builds momentum towards an ambitious outcome at COP31.
The Minister then met with the three Pacific COP31 Envoys, who hold responsibility for keeping the 1.5°C goal within reach, expanding access to climate finance, and elevating the ocean-climate agenda.
The meeting reviewed progress on the Envoys’ respective workplans and discussed priorities for Pre-COP and COP31, reaffirming that the Envoys’ advocacy role complements, and does not replace, the formal negotiating positions of Pacific states.
Both meetings underscored the urgency of the timeline ahead of October, with Minister Tabuya calling for continued acceleration of planning, coordination and political direction across all workstreams in the lead-up to the Pre-COP and the Third Climate Ministerial…. PACNEWS
PAC – DEEP SEA MINING: PMN PACNEWS 3: Wed 22 Jul 2026
Fresh concerns over radioactive risks from deep sea mining near American Sāmoa
PAGOPAGO, 22 JULY 2026 (PMN) — A new scientific warning is adding to growing Pacific opposition as the United States moves ahead with plans to auction offshore deep-sea mining leases near American Sāmoa later this year.
Researchers and environmental groups say mining could release naturally occurring radioactive materials into the ocean, raising fresh questions about the potential environmental and public health risks.
The move is part of efforts by Washington to secure supplies of critical minerals used in clean energy technology and defence industries.
The proposal would open more than 30 million acres of seabed east of American Sāmoa for potential commercial exploration and mining.
A report by the Deep-Sea Mining Campaign highlights research published by scientists from Germany’s Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI), which found high concentrations of naturally occurring radioactive elements on the surface of polymetallic nodules targeted by the mining industry.
According to the study, measurements of radium-226 on the outer layers of the nodules exceeded German safety limits for certain materials by between 100 and 1000 times.
The report says the radioactive particles are not considered dangerous while sealed inside the nodules but warns they could become a health risk if released into the environment during mining or processing.
Helen Rosenbaum, coordinator of the Deep-Sea Mining Campaign, said marine life would have little protection if radioactive particles entered the water.
“They become extremely dangerous when inhaled or ingested. Marine life cannot escape polluted water,” she said in a statement. “They will breathe it in and swallow it and eat prey contaminated by mining operations.”
Marine scientist Andrew Thaler said much more research was needed before commercial mining begins.
“We are diving blind into an unproven industry without understanding the potential consequences of combined exposure to both heavy metals and radioactive isotopes mobilised from deep-sea mining,” he says in the report.
The report says radioactive particles could also move through the marine food chain in the same way contaminants such as mercury accumulate in large ocean species, including tuna.
The findings come as Pacific leaders continue to push back against plans to expand deep-sea mining in the region.
Guam Senator Sabina Perez said the report strengthened concerns already held across the Pacific.
“This report highlights the growing body of scientific evidence that the impacts of deep-sea mining are severe, long-term, and irreversible… Island communities are the canaries in the coal mine when it comes to environmental and health risks tied to decisions made in Washington,” Perez told The Guam Daily Post.
American Sāmoa’s delegate to the U.S Congress, Uifa’atali Aumua Amata, has also reiterated her opposition to mining in waters surrounding the territory.
“My opposition to seabed mining in waters surrounding American Sāmoa has not changed… I remain opposed and consistent. I represent our people, and most of them are opposed to it.”
The U.S government says offshore mineral development is important for strengthening domestic supplies of critical minerals such as cobalt, nickel and rare earth elements, which are used in renewable energy technologies, batteries and defence manufacturing.
Federal officials argue expanding domestic production would reduce reliance on overseas supply chains.
But environmental groups say more scientific work is needed before commercial mining proceeds, warning that the long-term impacts on Pacific ecosystems, fisheries and coastal communities remain largely unknown.
Earthjustice also questioned the proposal. “Deep-sea mining poses an incredible threat to ocean ecosystems that are central to American Sāmoans’ history, culture, and day-to-day life,” attorney J.V. Langkilde told the AP.
Fa’asao Amerika Sāmoa spokesperson Seumalu Elora Raymond says local communities are being left out of decisions that could affect the territory’s ocean, culture and way of life, as opposition grows to proposed deep-sea mining near American Sāmoa.
He said the proposed lease process showed the administration intended to “bulldoze local outcry against mining in American Sāmoa’s waters”.
Local group Fa’asao Amerika Sāmoa told the AP that communities are being left out of decisions that could have lasting impacts on the territory’s ocean and way of life.
“Fa’asao Amerika Samoa is deeply disappointed that the federal government has chosen to fast-track this lease sale, ignoring the voices of the very people whose waters, traditions, and livelihoods are on the line,” Dr Seumalu Elora Raymond, spokesperson for Fa’asao, said.
“The ocean is not a commodity to us, it is the foundation of fa’a Sāmoa, sustaining our families, our culture, and our way of life for generations.”
The proposed lease sale near American Sāmoa is expected later this year and is likely to remain a major focus of debate as Pacific leaders, scientists and community groups continue to press for greater scrutiny of deep-sea mining and its potential impacts on the region’s people and oceans…. PACNEWS
PAC – CLIMATE CHANGE: UNDP PACNEWS 3: Wed 22 Jul 2026
Australia’s Youth Climate Champion connects with Samoan climate leaders
APIA, 22 JULY 2026 (UNDP) — COP31 Presidency Youth Climate Champion Sally Higgins has concluded a two-day visit to Samoa, meeting young climate leaders and visiting community-led initiatives that are strengthening climate resilience across the country.
Higgins, a young farmer from regional Australia, is championing youth voices in climate discussions and promote climate leadership, education and collaboration among the next generation of climate advocates and changemakers.
During her visit, Higgins participated in a Youth Talanoa organised by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Samoa Family Health Association (SFHA) and joined a networking event hosted by the Australian High Commission and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). These events brought together youth climate advocates, young professionals and environmental leaders to discuss the challenges, priorities and opportunities facing young people.
“It has been a privilege to meet so many inspiring young people and community leaders in Samoa who are already driving climate action in their communities,” Higgins said.
“As we look ahead to the Pacific pre-COP and COP31, it is vital that Pacific voices, experiences and solutions are reflected in the global climate conversation. The ideas, experiences and leadership I encountered in Samoa demonstrate the important contribution Pacific communities are making to climate action and resilience.”
Higgins visited Namua Island, where she met young community members involved in an innovative e-boat project, part of UNDP Pacific Green Transformation Initiative, supporting sustainable transport and clean energy solutions, while creating opportunities for local youth…. PACNEWS
PALAU – DIPLOMACY: ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS 3: Wed 22 Jul 2026
Palau’s Australia Embassy to open in July or August, Whipps Says
KOROR, 22 JULY 2026 (ISLAND TIMES) — Palau’s embassy in Australia is expected to open in July or August, President Surangel Whipps Jr said.
“They were saying that sometime in July or August they can open,” Whipps told reporters during a press conference.
Whipps said Australia is waiting for Palau to establish its embassy before Ambassador Roland Merar can formally present his credentials.
“The presentation of credentials will be done at the same time when the office opens,” he said.
The president added that his assistant, Hadden Seklii, has already traveled to Australia to help prepare for the embassy’s opening, and that Tangelbad will follow soon.
Whipps also announced a planned state visit to Australia in October, at the invitation of the Australian government.
“We have a proposed state visit to Australia — Australia has invited me to go in October,” he said.
Whipps said he hopes the embassy will be operational by then. “Hopefully, by then our embassy will have opened, so when we go to Australia, we can see them,” he said…. PACNEWS
FIJI – COUP IMPACT STUDY: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS 3: Wed 22 Jul 2026
Fiji universities criticised for ignoring coup impacts
SUVA, 22 JULY 2026 (FIJI TIMES) — Fiji’s universities have been criticised for failing to study the long-term effects of the country’s repeated political upheavals on the public service and governance, with the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearing that a major gap in research has left important national lessons undocumented.
Academic Prof Vijay Naidu told the Commission it was “a great shame” that higher education institutions had not examined how cycles of political instability had affected the quality and performance of Fiji’s public sector.
“It’s a great shame that the universities in Fiji have failed to look at the impacts of these cycles of political instability on the nature, the quality and the function of the public sector.”
Dr Naidu drew particular attention to the University of the South Pacific, saying its once-prominent governance programme had disappeared despite the country’s history of political crises.
“The governance programme was a flagship programme of the university in the early 2000s… Well, the governance programme is gone. It’s finished.”
He questioned what that said about the role of universities in serving Fiji and the wider Pacific.
“What does it tell you about universities serving Fiji and the region when governance is such an important issue?”
Dr Naidu said strengthening democratic institutions required sustained effort and could not be achieved overnight.
“The general democratic institutions and the checks and balances associated with them, together with a supportive democratic culture, have to be built incrementally.”
He warned that every military coup had reversed progress made in democratic governance and institution building.
“The analogy of switching the light on and off doesn’t work. Democracy doesn’t work that way. Each time we have had a military coup, it’s actually taken us backwards.”
Referring to earlier evidence presented by Professor Graham Hassall, Dr Naidu said the damage extended beyond the public service to the broader confidence people had in national institutions.
“The wider implication is that there is a loss of confidence.”
He said understanding the long-term consequences of political instability was essential if Fiji was to rebuild stronger democratic institutions and avoid repeating the mistakes of the past…. PACNEWS
FIJI – ANTI CORRUPTION/COURTS: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS 3: Wed 22 Jul 2026
FICAC abandons Fiji DPP director Christopher Pryde prosecution
SUVA, 22 JULY 2026 (FIJI TIMES) — The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has discontinued legal proceedings against Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde.
Senior Prosecutor Lani More filed a nolle prosequi, which was accepted by Magistrate Yogesh Prasad. As a result, the charges against Pryde have been discontinued.
Pryde faces one count of abuse of office, alleging that while serving as the Director of Public Prosecutions, he approved and received four gratuity payments amounting to $138,445.05 (US$69,227) without obtaining the necessary approvals from the Office of the President and the Judicial Services Commission
In the alternative, he is charged with causing a loss, on the basis that he dishonestly caused financial loss to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions by accepting these unauthorised payments
He also faces a second count of abuse of office, alleging that he approved and received eight reimbursements totalling $47,053.03 (US$25,526) for airfares for his wife and child, despite knowing they did not reside with him in Fiji, which is contrary to the conditions of his employment contract and in breach of procurement policy
In the alternative, he is charged with obtaining a financial advantage, for knowingly receiving payments to which he was not entitled
The third count is causing a loss, alleging that on or about 16 September 2022, Pryde was reimbursed $7,828.56 (US$3,914) for unused air tickets.
Although the airline refunded him directly, he failed to return the amount to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
More told the court that the decision to discontinue was because Pryde had successfully managed to evade service and was beyond FICAC’s control.
The file is now closed…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
PAC – COMMERCIAL PARTNRSHIP: NAURU GOVT PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 22 Jul 2026
Naoero and Marshall Islands seal landmark commercial partnership
BRISBANE, 22 JULY 2026 (NAURU GOVT) — In a historic step forward for Pacific economic cooperation, the Government of Naoero and the Government of the Republic of Marshall Islands announced the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen trade, drive investment, and unlock a new era of commercial partnership between the two nations.
The MOU was signed 15 July in Brisbane, Australia bringing together senior representatives from both governments in a ceremony marking what officials are calling “a defining moment” for regional economic collaboration.
The MOU establishes a robust framework for cooperation across a range of commercial sectors, paving the way for joint ventures, streamlined trade channels, and long-term investment opportunities between Naoero and the Republic of Marshall Islands. Both nations described the signing as the beginning of a new chapter defined by shared prosperity and mutual ambition.
“This is more than a signature on paper — this is two nations choosing to build the future together,” Minister for Nauru Air Corporation Asterio Appi said.
“We are opening doors that will benefit our businesses, our workers, and our communities for generations to come.”
Minister Hilton Kendall, representing the Republic of Marshall Islands Government, echoed the sentiment, emphasising the strength of the partnership and the opportunities it creates for both nations moving forward.
“Today we prove that ambition and partnership go hand in hand,” Minister Kendall said.
“The Republic of Marshall Islands is proud to stand alongside Naoero as we chart a bold new commercial future — together, we are stronger, sharper, and ready for what’s next.”
Both governments have committed to establishing a joint working group in the coming months to oversee implementation of the MOU, with further announcements expected regarding specific commercial projects and investment initiatives.
The MOU will progress to formal commercial agreements scheduled to be signed late August 2026 between the two nations and will serve as a foundation for deeper diplomatic and economic ties in the years ahead…. PACNEWS
PNG – AIRLINE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 22 Jul 2026
Japan, NZ important markets to PNG: Airline
PORT MORESBY, 22 JULY 2026 (THE NATIONAL) — Air Niugini has described Japan and New Zealand as important markets for Papua New Guinea, with growing demand for business, tourism, education, government travel and the movement of cargo.
Chief executive officer Alan Milne was commenting on the recent start of flights to Narita and Auckland.
Prime Minister James Marape said the restoration of Air Niugini’s direct flights reflected growing confidence in Papua New Guinea’s economy.
“We (Government) are pursuing stronger aviation links across the Asia-Pacific, including China, South Korea, Indonesia and other major economic partners,” he said.
“We are also exploring new opportunities with nations such as the United Arab Emirates to establish additional direct international connections that will strengthen Papua New Guinea’s place in the global economy.”
Milne said Air Niugini was offering special introductory fares on both the Port Moresby-Tokyo and Port Moresby-Auckland routes.
“Seats at these special fares are limited and customers are encouraged to book early to access the best available fares,” he said.
The Port Moresby-Tokyo service takes around six hours and 30 minutes, eliminating the need for transit through other regional hubs which can double the journey time.
The Port Moresby-Auckland service, from 17 November, will take five hours and 45 minutes.
Presently, customers have to transit via Australia which means a journey of over 11 hours.
“The nonstop services will strengthen opportunities for the export of Papua New Guinea’s premium products, including seafood, vanilla, coffee and cocoa, while improving supply chain efficiency for importers and exporters,” Milne said.
“Enhanced air connectivity will further support trade, investment and economic cooperation between Papua New Guinea and both countries.”
The restored services are expected to encourage more visitors to experience PNG’s unique culture, spectacular natural environment and providing Papua New Guineans with more convenient access to Japan and New Zealand for business, education, cultural exchanges, seasonal workers (New Zealand) and leisure.
Responding to questions from The National regarding cancellations of domestic and international flights, Milne said: “As with all airlines, there are occasions when operational requirements or technical issues require schedule adjustments to ensure the safetyof our passengers, crew and aircraft.”
The introduction of the three new Airbus A220 aircraft is improving domestic operations with the aircraft now servicing six airports in PNG.
It will increase to nine by the end of this year as the National Airports Corporation (NAC) continues to complete its runway maintenance and upgrade programmes…. PACNEWS
TONGA – COUNTERFEIT NOTES: TALANOAOTONGA PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 22 Jul 2026
National Reserve Bank of Tonga warns counterfeit $100 paʻanga banknotes are in circulation
NUKU’ALOFA, 22 JULY 2026 (TALANOAOTONGA) — The National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) has warned the public that counterfeit 100 paʻanga banknotes from the latest 2023 King Tupou VI series have been detected in circulation, urging businesses and consumers to carefully check cash during transactions.
In a public notice issued on Monday, the central bank said it had identified several fake $100 notes that closely resemble genuine currency but lack key security features. The warning comes as authorities seek to prevent further circulation of counterfeit notes and minimise financial losses for businesses and members of the public.
NRBT Governor Tatafu Moeaki said people should be especially vigilant when handling cash, particularly during the current festive period, as more counterfeit banknotes could still be circulating. He encouraged businesses that regularly accept cash payments to examine high-value notes carefully before completing transactions.
According to the bank, genuine $100 paʻanga notes include four important security features. These are a watermark of His Majesty King Tupou VI with the lighter text “NRBT”, an embedded Nexus security thread displaying the heilala flower, Tongan kupesi and the denomination “100”, ultraviolet fluorescent markings visible under UV light, and official banknote dimensions. The counterfeit notes identified by the bank do not contain these features.
The NRBT said information explaining the security features of genuine banknotes is available on its website, while printed guides can also be collected free of charge from its offices.
The bank has previously issued public warnings about financial scams, reflecting ongoing efforts to protect consumers from fraud.
Producing, possessing, distributing or knowingly using counterfeit currency is a serious criminal offence. Anyone who receives or suspects they have received a counterfeit banknote is urged to report it immediately to the NRBT or the nearest police station…. PACNEWS
FIJI – BRAIN DRAIN: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 22 Jul 2026
Brain drain after coups went beyond Indo-Fijians, TRC told
SUVA, 22 JULY 2026 (FIJI TIMES) — The long-term impact of Fiji’s coups extended far beyond the departure of Indo-Fijians, with the country suffering a devastating loss of skilled professionals across all ethnic groups, the Fiji Truth and Reconciliation Commission heard yesterday.
Academic Professor Graham Hassall said fear and uncertainty created a moral dilemma for public servants, many of whom felt compelled to remain silent or comply with unlawful directives simply to protect their families.
“When it rains, you have to put up your umbrella. That was taken by me to mean, ‘I have to feed my family. If I don’t obey that illegal ruling order, I’ll lose my position.’ That was the moral dilemma that every public servant faced.”
Professor Hassall cautioned against assuming that civil servants who remained in government after the coups were unsympathetic to the concerns of Indo-Fijians.
“You cannot presume that, for example, a Fijian who stayed in the public service was against Indo-Fijian concerns. There was a suppression of expressions of solidarity across race for this reason, and everybody just kept quiet.”
He said the resulting brain drain affected the entire country, not just one community.
“The impact of brain drain wasn’t just Indo-Fijians leaving; it was a brain drain on Fijians as well. It was a brain drain that affected the country. It’s not just an exodus of people leaving through the airport.”
Professor Hassall said the scale of the loss became clear when he examined Government Gazettes recording resignations from the public service.
“When I looked at the Government Gazettes, particularly for the years 1987, 1988 and 1989, and saw the number of teachers and medical staff resigning from the service, it really brings home to you the numbers that were involved.”
He said the consequences of the exodus were reflected in international assessments of Fiji’s development.
“The public sector came to be seen as a training ground for the private sector and for migration. Once a graduate gained three to five years’ experience in the Ministry of Finance or Public Works, they migrated to Australia and New Zealand.”
Professor Hassall said international agencies, including the World Bank, found that some infrastructure projects failed not because of a lack of funding, but because Fiji lacked the skilled workforce needed to deliver them.
“The World Bank reported that infrastructure projects failed not because of lack of funds, but because of what they called absorptive capacity. For example, how many engineers had left the Public Works Department.”
He said the loss of experienced professionals had lasting consequences for Fiji’s public service and national development…. PACNEWS.
PNG – POWER BILLS: NBC PNG NEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Wed 22 Jul 2026
State owes PNG Power nearly K200 Million
PORT MORESBY, 22 JULY 2026 (NBC PNG NEWS) — State Enterprise Minister and outgoing Minister responsible for PNG Power, William Duma says Papua New Guinea government agencies owe PNG Power nearly K200 million (US$44 million) in unpaid electricity bills, placing further pressure on its finances.
Duma said unpaid electricity bills by government agencies are one of the biggest reasons the state-owned power company continues to face financial difficulties.
Speaking during the handover of PNG Power responsibilities to the new minister, Richard Maru on Monday, Duma said government departments, hospitals, schools, police stations and other state agencies owe PNG Power almost K200 million (US$44 million).
“Our state agencies owe this company nearly K200 million (US$44 million),” Duma said.
“When your single biggest customer does not pay its bills, how do you expect the company to make a profit, pay dividends or improve its ageing infrastructure?” he asked.
Duma said PNG Power has continued to struggle financially despite efforts by the government and the company’s management to improve its performance.
He said the company also faces high costs from long-term agreements with independent power producers, where PNG Power must continue paying for electricity under existing contracts.
“As long as these agreements remain in force, PNG Power will never be able to make a profit unless something changes,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Duma said PNG Power is beginning to recover under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Paul Bailey.
He said the company recorded a small profit of K1.7 million (US$380,000) last year after more than two decades of losses.
“That is a good turnaround. It is a sign of better things to come,” Duma said.
He said the government will continue with reforms aimed at improving PNG Power’s financial position and delivering reliable and affordable electricity to Papua New Guineans…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
UN expert mechanism advances dialogue on Indigenous languages
GENEVA, 22 JULY 2026 (UNESCO) — The 19th session of the United Nations Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP), organized by OHCHR in Geneva, gave a platform to the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022-2032), elevating Indigenous languages as a key priority on the international human rights agenda.
During the Item 7 dedicated to the progress of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages, representatives of Indigenous Peoples, governments and civil society took part in an important dialogue.
The session was opened by EMRIP Member, Gam Awungshi Shimray, and followed by a report on the progress of the Decade delivered by Anabel Benjamin Bara, Representative of the Indigenous Peoples’ Organisation, Indigenae Global Confederation, on the Global Task Force of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages.
The report highlighted important progress made in the past year, including the launch of new Action Plans in support of the Decade in Honduras, Papua New Guinea and the Central American region, as well as the ongoing development of Action Plans in Africa and the Pacific, regions that are home to extraordinary linguistic diversity. It also underscored the need for greater policy and government action.
The report further addressed the rapid development of digital technologies and artificial intelligence, which present both opportunities and challenges for Indigenous languages:
While technologies can support the revitalisation of Indigenous Peoples’ languages, they also raise important questions regarding the rights of Indigenous Peoples to maintain ownership and control over their languages and knowledge. We have to be cautious about how we are using this technology.
Several initiatives addressing these challenges were highlighted:
*UNESCO’s Global Roadmap for Multilingualism in the Digital Era, launched in November 2025 following wide consultation with language communities, which seeks to promote inclusive digital development for all languages;
*Partnerships with organisations such as Unicode and the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, helping ensure Indigenous Peoples can participate in digital spaces in their own languages;
*And the newly launched New Commons Incubator for Indigenous Languages and Cultures, which supports Indigenous-led initiatives to strengthen data governance and build digital infrastructures reflecting community priorities and values.
The report was followed by interventions from the audience, which highlighted ongoing challenges in language revitalisation and transmission, examples of local and community-led revitalisation efforts, and calls for sustained funding and stronger partnerships between States, Indigenous Peoples and UN agencies to sustain progress made under the Decade.
This year’s session carried particular significance, as next year will mark not only the midpoint of the Decade but also the twentieth anniversary of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The feedback and recommendations gathered will be especially valuable in helping partners take stock of progress and prepare for this important milestone, as well as inform the work of the Global Task Force as the governance mechanism of the Decade. A representative of the Secretariat was also in attendance, reaffirming its commitment to bringing these recommendations forward as part of the Decade’s ongoing work.
The United Nations General Assembly (Resolution A/RES/74/135) proclaimed 2022-2032 as the International Decade of Indigenous Languages to raise global awareness of the urgent need to preserve, revitalize and promote Indigenous languages worldwide. UNESCO’s Communication and Information Sector leads the Decade’s implementation in cooperation with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) and other relevant UN Agencies…. PACNEWS
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‘Business as usual is a business of death’: UN adopts road safety pledge over U.S objection
NEW YORK, 22 JULY 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) — The UN General Assembly closed its first ever High-level Meeting on road safety on Tuesday by adopting a sweeping new declaration aimed at halving road deaths by 2030 – over the sole objection of the United States.
The Progress Declaration passed by a recorded vote of 162 in favour to one against, with no abstentions.
It commits governments to strengthen national road safety systems, upgrade vehicle and infrastructure standards, and adopt the ‘Safe System’ approach, which designs roads and vehicles to survive the mistakes drivers inevitably make.
Washington cries mission creep
The U.S representative accused the declaration of “mandate creep that has eroded the credibility of this institution,” objecting to provisions linking road safety with climate and environmental policy.
“Road safety is a practical matter of engineering, sober driving and personal responsibility,” he said. It “should not be used as a backdoor vehicle to enforce global climate pacts and top-down environmental restrictions on freedom of mobility.”
Other countries backed the declaration while marking their own reservations.
Argentina stressed its sovereign right to implement it according to national law, while separately reserving its position on the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) role. Paraguay underlined that the follow-up process, like the declaration itself, is voluntary and non-binding.
‘More than the number killed in direct conflict’
Opening the meeting, General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock addressed the question she said many people ask: why does the UN spend its time on road safety when wars and crises dominate the agenda?
The answer, she said, is scale. Road crashes kill more than 1.2 million people a year and injure some 50 million more – more, she noted, than are killed in direct conflict, murdered, or die of malaria.
“Since I began speaking,” she told delegates, several more families had already received news that would change their lives forever.
She asked delegates to think of the everyday journeys that bring people to work, school or home – “whether you came by car, by bike or simply walked” to UN Headquarters, all had taken part in “the complex choreography of New York’s traffic system.”
The issue is personal for her too: her aunt was killed by a tram, a loss whose legacy, she said, “lingered”, sending “never-ending ripples of devastation” through the family.
Progress, but nowhere near fast enough
New WHO data released alongside the declaration show the global road death rate fell 21 percent between 2011 and 2025, even as more than a billion vehicles were added to the world’s roads.
Still, 1.16 million people died in crashes in 2025, and road injuries remain the leading killer of children and young people aged 5 to 29.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus opened his remarks by asking delegates who had been in a crash or had lost or known someone killed or injured in one, to stand.
“I think almost all of us,” he said. “All road deaths are preventable and none are acceptable.”
The gains are wildly uneven. Deaths fell 36 percent in Europe and 15 percent in the Western Pacific, but just two percent in South-East Asia; they were flat in the Americas and up 17 percent in Africa.
Motorcyclists, whose numbers have more than tripled since 2011, now account for nearly a third of all road deaths – though WHO says a certified helmet cuts the risk of dying more than sixfold.
As the UN’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, put it: “Business as usual is a business of death.” …. PACNEWS
