In this bulletin:
2. PACIFIC — Green Climate Fund cuts climate funding approval time to nine months: Duarte
3. PACIFIC — Overshoot is not surrender: PICAN says every fraction of a degree is now a fight for survival
4. PACIFIC — Solomon Islands reopens debate over dialogue partners at Pacific Islands Forum
5. PACIFIC — Australia’s ‘shameful’ cocaine habit prompts $600m Pacific package
6. PACIFIC — Pacific leaders push for stronger EU partnership
7. SOL — Solomon Islands Attorney General Suri rejects allegations as “false and misleading”
8. SAMOA — Lise Marie Schmidt pleads guilty to misleading Police with damaging lies about Samoa’s then Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa
9. TUVALU — First batch of TPS officers deployed to UNMISS
10. PNG — Journalists strengthen kills in ethical election reporting and investigative journalism
11. PACNEWS BIZ — U.S unveils more than $150 million deal in Pacific investments and assistance
12. PACNEWS BIZ — ADB Backs Palau’s Fiscal and Energy Resilience Amid Global Shocks, Expands North Pacific Presence
13. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji, U.S advance dialogue on visa arrangements
14. PACNEWS IN FOCUS — PALAU| Surangel Whipps Jr: The unlikely Pacific Warrior standing up to China
15. PACNEWS DIGEST — Forum Leaders and Key Stakeholders Advance Collective Action at the 55th Forum Leaders Meeting
16. PACNEWS DIGEST — Promoting Pacific Prosperity: U.S Engagement at the Pacific Islands Forum
PNG – GOLD ROBBERY: ABC PACNEWS 1: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Armed thieves steal gold and cash during Port Moresby hold-up in one of PNG’s biggest robberies
PORT MORESBY, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (ABC) — Police in Papua New Guinea are investigating what could be one of the biggest robberies in the country’s history, after armed men held up a security convoy in Port Moresby and made off with 25 gold bars and $315,000 (US$225,731) in cash.
Police Commissioner David Manning confirmed a major investigation was underway into the early morning hold-up on Wednesday, in which two private security vehicles were intercepted while transporting the bullion and cash through a city street.
“It is reported that at around 4:30 this morning two private security vehicles were intercepted by unknown vehicles in Port Moresby,” Commissioner Manning said.
“Ten armed assailants held the security crews at gunpoint and proceeded to steal a quantity of gold and cash, as well as firearms.”
It is understood the stolen haul included 20 gold bars from the Porgera Gold Mine in Enga province, operated by mining company New Porgera Limited, along with five gold bars from Lae-based gold buying and exporting firm Golden Valley Enterprise Limited.
Also taken was a million kina ($315,000 (US$225,731)) in cash, along with a pump-action shotgun and a carbine belonging to the security crew.
It is unclear how heavy the gold bars were, or how pure the gold was, but a standard retail gold bar weighing 1 kilogram usually sells for about $200,000 (US$143,321).
A larger brick, like the gold held in central bank reserves, weighs about 12.4kg and is worth more than $2 million (US$1.43 million).
While the estimated value and weight of the 25 stolen gold bars are yet to be confirmed, a senior police source has described this week’s theft as one of the biggest robberies in the country’s history in terms of the value of gold stolen and is likely worth millions.
According to a timeline of events provided to police, the two cash-in-transit vehicles pulled out from their security base shortly after 4:30am. They headed for Papua New Guinea’s International Airport via the Poreporena Freeway.
As the vehicles approached a roundabout, they encountered what appeared to be a staged roadblock.
The driver of the lead vehicle opened the door to ask to pass, but was held at gunpoint before three more vehicles pulled up behind the convoy, blocking their exit.
Close to 10 armed men, some allegedly carrying military-style rifles, are reported to have forced the security crews from both vehicles at gunpoint before making off with the gold, cash and firearms.
No shots were fired, and no injuries were reported.
Commissioner Manning said early indications suggested shortcomings in how the transport had been handled.
“Police had not been alerted to the movement prior to it taking place,” he said.
“There are several witnesses that are being interviewed, including the private security crews, as well as management and workers from the firm.
“This is a very serious incident. Early indications are that the movement of these valuables by the security company leaves a lot to be desired in terms of how the private operation was conducted.”
Police sources said there were further concerns about the security arrangements around the transport, including how alarm and response procedures were handled.
It is understood an investigative team is currently questioning at least four people, as police work to identify those involved and recover the stolen gold and cash.
Police Deputy Commissioner of Specialist Operations Donald Yamasombi, who is overseeing the investigation, said the robbery was one of the biggest since the days of notorious criminal figure William Kapris.
Kapris was linked to a 2007 armed robbery in which thieves stole K78,000 (US$17,913)) in cash and gold bars worth more than K2 million (US$451,415) from a Port Moresby refining operation.
He was later shot and killed by police in 2013, after spending months on the run following his escape from Bomana maximum-security prison…. PACNEWS
PAC – FORUM LEADERS MEET/CLIMATE FINANCE: PACNEWS PACNEWS 1: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Green Climate Fund cuts climate funding approval time to nine months: Duarte
By Pita Ligaiula in Koror, Palau
KOROR, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (PACNEWS) — Pacific Island countries could gain faster access to Green Climate Fund (GCF) financing under reforms that have cut project approval and accreditation processes from years to a target of nine months, GCF Executive Director Mafalda Duarte says.
In a PACNEWS exclusive interview on the margins of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Koror, Duarte said the reforms were a direct response to repeated concerns from Pacific leaders and other developing countries that climate finance was too slow and difficult to access.
“One of the first things we did was actually to change a little bit the way we engage with the countries,” Duarte said.
She said the GCF began a reform agenda three years ago and has since reorganised its operations to provide countries with a more integrated service.
Previously, different GCF departments dealt separately with country engagement, project origination, project implementation and portfolio management.
The Fund has now brought those functions together under four regional departments, including Asia-Pacific.
“Everything from engagement with countries, with governments, to provision of technical assistance, to project preparation facility, all the way through investments, both development and implementation, is under one responsibility.
“That was so we can really come to the countries and engage more holistically and in a more integrated way across all of the services and instruments we have to support the countries,” Duarte told PACNEWS.
Duarte said one of the strongest complaints received by the GCF was the length of time it took to move projects from a concept note to approval by the GCF Board.
She said the process had previously taken more than two years on average.
“We reformed that process,” she said. “Since 2025, the commitment has been to do it up to nine months, and we are honouring that.”
The reform is expected to be particularly significant for Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS), where limited government capacity has often slowed the preparation and processing of major climate projects.
Duarte said the GCF had also moved to simplify and speed up the accreditation process for institutions seeking authority to directly access and implement GCF funding.
Accreditation had previously taken more than four years in some cases.
“It was taking also more than four, four and a half years.
“We brought a reform to the Board mid last year, and so as of this year, we are committing to do it up to nine months,” Duarte told PACNEWS in Koror.
Duarte said the faster accreditation process could allow more Pacific institutions and governments to become directly accredited to the Fund.
She said capacity constraints and the previously lengthy accreditation process had discouraged some Pacific institutions from applying.
“With this reform now, we will see governments in the region, ministries of finance, that have an interest in being accredited and implementing directly,” she said.
The Cook Islands Ministry of Finance is already accredited by the GCF and has implemented its first project directly through the ministry.
Duarte said the Fund expects the reforms to broaden the network of Pacific institutions able to work directly with the GCF.
The Fund already works with the Pacific Community (SPC) and the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), which are key regional accredited entities.
“With those two, we already are working,” Duarte said. “But we will be able to have a broader network and really work also directly with governments.”
She said the GCF also wants to expand its engagement with the private sector.
Fiji Development Bank (FDB) is already among private sector entities accredited by the Fund, but Duarte said other Pacific institutions could also seek accreditation.
Duarte said Pacific leaders are increasingly calling for a greater role for private investment in climate action.
She referred to comments by Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr, who said earlier in the week that 97 percent of climate finance coming into the region was from the public sector, while only 3 percent came from private sources.
“The willingness and intent is to shift that and see much more investment with the private sector,” Duarte said.
She said increasing private investment would reduce pressure on governments with limited capacity while also supporting job creation.
“This is a heavy burden on the public sector with limited capacity,” she said. “But also, because the private sector, as we know, is critical to drive job creation.”
Duarte said the GCF has significant experience in mobilising private sector finance globally.
The Fund currently has a US$20 billion portfolio that is expected to unlock US$80 billion in wider investment, with more than US$7 billion of its portfolio directly involving the private sector.
She said the GCF was already examining private sector projects in the Pacific that could soon be brought before its Board.
“They will be first of their kind in the region as well,” Duarte said.
Despite the reforms, Duarte acknowledged that some Pacific leaders have yet to experience the benefits because the changes are relatively new.
“I told some of the leaders that I met with, they are not yet feeling, many of them, the impacts of this reform because they are fairly recent.
“They haven’t yet experienced the new processes,” she said.
Duarte said the GCF was also considering whether additional dedicated access arrangements were needed for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and other countries with severe capacity constraints.
“We are also very keen to continue to explore if we should have dedicated modalities for countries like SIDS or other highly capacity-constrained countries,” she said…. PACNEWS
PAC – CLIMATE CHANGE: PICAN PACNEWS 1: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Overshoot is not surrender: PICAN says every fraction of a degree is now a fight for survival
KOROR, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (PICAN) — The Pacific Islands Climate Action Network (PICAN) has warned that the projected overshoot of the 1.5°C global warming threshold must not become an excuse for weaker climate ambition.
A major new UNEP report released Wednesday finds that global warming is now set to cross 1.5°C within the next few years. Even under an optimistic scenario, peak warming reaches around 1.8°C, while current policies point to significantly higher temperatures. UNEP warns there are no safe outcomes above 1.5°C, with Small Island Developing States facing escalating risks from sea-level rise, ecosystem loss, extreme weather and possible partial or complete submersion.
The report lands as Pacific leaders meet in Palau for the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, where climate resilience, regional security and development are central to discussions.
Dr Rufino Varea, Director of the Pacific Islands Climate Action Network said: “For the Pacific, overshoot is not a line on a graph. Every fraction of a degree carries consequences for our reefs, our food and water, our economies, our homes and ultimately our ability to remain on our islands. We have fought for 1.5°C because the science has always told us what lies beyond it, and this report makes those consequences even clearer.”
“We cannot allow the inevitability of crossing 1.5°C to become an excuse for accepting a hotter world. Overshoot may now be unavoidable, but how high temperatures rise and how long they remain there are still determined by the choices governments make today. Every fraction of a degree we prevent matters. Every year we shorten overshoot matters. For Pacific peoples, those choices will be measured in what we are still able to save.”
UNEP identifies an “overshoot, peak and decline” pathway as the best remaining option to limit how high temperatures rise and how long they remain above 1.5°C. The report makes clear that the most effective action available now is rapid and sustained emissions reductions, alongside stronger adaptation and resilience. While technologies may form part of future responses, they cannot substitute for cutting emissions at source today.
The report also places equity and justice at the centre of the response, saying countries with greater historical responsibility and capability must act the hardest and fastest.
Dr Sindra Sharma, International Policy Lead at the Pacific Islands Climate Action Network said: “Crossing 1.5°C does not make 1.5°C irrelevant. It makes the responsibility to act even greater. The International Court of Justice has affirmed 1.5°C as the agreed primary temperature goal under the Paris Agreement, and UNEP is clear that this benchmark continues to guide states’ obligations even in an overshoot world.”
“The science of overshoot cannot become political cover for continued fossil fuel expansion or weaker climate targets. Nor can governments gamble our future on technologies that may or may not deliver at the scale required to bring temperatures back down. States must act to limit any exceedance of 1.5C. That means deep and sustained emissions reductions now, stronger NDCs, an accelerated transition away from fossil fuels, and climate finance at a scale that enables vulnerable countries to adapt while protecting development gains.”
“And we have to ask the justice question at the heart of this report – who is being asked to carry the cost of overshoot? Pacific countries did not create this crisis, yet our options are closing around us, climate finance is not reaching communities to flexibly adapt to and respond to the harms of a warming world. We are being asked to contemplate consequences that reach all the way to habitability. Overshoot has a message, to those delaying action — it is telling us we are disposable.”
UNEP’s legal analysis also reinforces that overshoot does not erase existing obligations. The report says the 1.5°C benchmark continues to guide states even if warming exceeds it, and that growing climate risks increase the level of action expected from governments.
PICAN said the report should sharpen, not weaken, Pacific demands for deep emissions cuts, a transition away from fossil fuels, adequate climate finance and stronger support for adaptation and loss and damage…. PACNEWS
PAC – PIFLM55: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS 1: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Solomon Islands reopens debate over dialogue partners at Pacific Islands Forum
KOROR, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — The Solomon Islands is asking its fellow Pacific Island Forum (PIF) members to reconsider the presence of dialogue partners at the regional body’s annual leaders meeting, RNZ Pacific understands.
The issue was raised at a closed meeting of the PIF on Wednesday morning in Palau, with the Solomon Islands asking members to consider whether the leaders meeting should be separate from the dialogue partners’ process, RNZ Pacific understands.
The presence of partners at the annual leaders’ meeting has been a contentious issue over the past few years.
Each year, a partner’s dialogue meeting is held as part of the leaders’ meeting week. In total, 21 countries are PIF dialogue partners, with key regional players like the United States, China, Japan and France among them. Taiwan, which also has a delegation in Koror, is a development partner.
However, last year, then-host Solomon Islands banned partners from attending and deferred the dialogue partner meeting to Palau. It was held on Tuesday in Koror.
As interest in the region has grown, the presence of partner delegations, as well as NGOs and observers has increased substantially. The current leaders’ meeting was expected to bring 2000 people to Palau.
While interest and investment in the region are welcomed by members, the sheer number of people, countries and organisations now attending the leaders’ week has resulted in an extensive list of bilateral meetings and sideline events that sit outside the official PIFs agenda.
RNZ Pacific understands several delegations from Pacific nations have struggled to keep up with the demands of the week. It is understood that a separate partner process could offer more time for members to speak directly with one another and focus on the PIF agenda.
Despite that, support for the Solomon Islands proposal among the membership is unlikely to be clearcut. The Solomons’ decision to stop partners’ attending last year divided members.
New Zealand foreign minister Winston Peters made it clear at the time he believed partners needed to be at the leaders’ meeting because of the investment role they played in the region – a sentiment he repeated this year. While Sāmoa, represented by previous prime minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, and Palau president Surangel Whipps Jnr supported the decision from then-Solomons Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.
The Solomons proposal also comes as the 18 PIF members have been deliberating on a new partnership structure. The proposed structure would divide partners into two tiers, with the top tier having greater access to member states.
With large delegations from China, the U.S and Taiwan present, geopolitical competition around the PIF has dominated headlines.
The absences of five leaders, including Solomons Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale, has also been reported extensively. Wale had to return home after landing in Koror due to a motion of no confidence in his leadership.
As a result, his Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela will be attending Thursday’s leaders’ retreat in his place. Only the heads-of-delegations from the 18 PIF members are permitted at the retreat, which is being held at the residence of President Whipps Jr…. PACNEWS
PAC – DRUG FIGHT: SMH PACNEWS 1: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Australia’s ‘shameful’ cocaine habit prompts $600m Pacific package
KOROR, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (SMH) — Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will pledge $600 million (US$429.96 million) for a new Pacific-wide initiative to combat the surge of illicit drug smuggling in the region, especially cocaine bound for Australia.
The major funding commitment came as Albanese pushed back against China’s Pacific envoy for threatening retaliation and lodging complaints over Taiwan’s presence at the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau, declaring it was up to Pacific nations to determine their own affairs.
Tensions between Taiwan and China escalated as officials traded barbs, with Taiwan accusing Beijing of bullying smaller nations and China accusing the self-governing territory of humiliating itself.
As they struggle to cope with a dramatic rise in transnational crime fuelling the illegal drug trade, Pacific leaders are preparing to endorse a new regional initiative known as Waqa Moana to beef up maritime patrols and intelligence sharing.
The $600 million (US$429.96 million) package Albanese will announce on Wednesday would fund enhanced aerial surveillance to help track suspected drug vessels and provide extra support to police in Fiji, among the nations hardest hit by the rise in drug smuggling.
The Waqa Moana initiative – named after a large, sturdy canoe – would include greater co-ordination of existing resources to combat transnational crime, including the 23 Guardian-class patrol boats Australia has given to Pacific countries.
Federal police would also increase their co-operation with South and Central American countries to target the drug trade at its source.
“The Pacific is our home and our family. That’s why it’s in Australia’s interests to work with our Pacific partners to combat organised crime,” Albanese said.
“For the good of every country in the region, including our own – we need to work together to stamp out the illicit drug trade.”
Pacific leaders are expected to officially endorse the initiative at the end of the week.
Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett declared in May that “it is our nation’s shame that Australians consume too many illicit drugs and pay high prices for them”.
At the same time, Barrett revealed that 17 tonnes of illicit drugs, mostly cocaine, had been seized by authorities in the Pacific since January, up from less than five tonnes in all of 2025.
Barrett warned that “greedy and ruthless narco-gangs are trying to make more money by identifying new ways to traffic illicit drugs”, including by sending semi-submersible vehicles (widely known as narco-submarines) to cross the Pacific.
“The magnitude and endless maritime trafficking of illicit drugs to, and through the Pacific, has become a serious national security threat for the Pacific and Australia,” she said.
A multinational police investigation implicating 11 Fijian police officers in collusion with drug traffickers was also handed over to prosecutors in May.
A month later, Fijian police confirmed that 76 parcels that washed up in the country had been found to contain cocaine.
Pacific Minister Pat Conroy said: “Drug trafficking is having a devastating impact on Pacific communities.
“This initiative responds to the calls of regional leaders to do more, and to step up regional coordination to address this scourge.”
Speaking after the forum’s opening ceremony, China’s special envoy for the Pacific Qian Bo said he had “serious concerns” about the level of access being granted to Taiwan, a self-governing island that China claims as an integral part of its territory.
“We have made our position very clear to the government of Palau and the secretariat,” he told reporters.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun doubled down on Tuesday, telling reporters in Beijing that Taiwan “has no standing whatsoever” to participate in PIF activities.
“By sending ‘Taiwan independence’ separatists like [Taiwan Foreign Minister] Lin Chia-lung around to scheme for attention and clout, the Taiwan authorities will only end up bringing humiliation upon themselves,” Guo said.
He also rejected New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ claim that the non-attendance of several leaders was “highly suspicious”, insisting it was “completely groundless” to blame China for the no-shows.
Lin urged Pacific leaders to hold firm against Beijing’s demands as he accused Qian of practicing an aggressive form of “wolf warrior diplomacy”.
“We should not be making concessions just because of China’s bullying,” he said.
He told reporters Taiwan had been a PIF development partner since 1993, and he had “every confidence” it would participate in next year’s conference in New Zealand. Blocking Taiwan from participating would “violate the spirit of the Pacific way”, he said.
China, the United States and other countries serve as official dialogue partners of the PIF, while Taiwan attends as a development partner.
Palau is one of a handful of remaining countries in the world that still recognise Taiwan, rather than Beijing, as the legitimate government of China.
Saying he believed China had the support of most Pacific nations over the issue, Qian said that “there will always be consequences” when China is unhappy about a decision.
Asked about Qian’s comments on Tuesday, Albanese told reporters: “The Pacific Islands Forum determines what happens here, not any other country.”
Albanese, who has previously holidayed in Palau, rejected the Chinese tourism ministry’s warnings of robberies, describing the Micronesian nation as a “paradise”.
Asked about China’s warning of consequences, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said: “I think the Pacific should be able to determine its own relationships.”
Opposition foreign affairs spokesman Ted O’Brien called Beijing’s behaviour “intimidating” and called for Albanese to be more outspoken about China’s attempted coercion.
“The prime minister’s continued reluctance to confront increasingly concerning behaviour by Beijing risks projecting weakness and undermining Australia’s national interests,” he said…. PACNEWS
PAC – PIFLM55: ISLANDS BUSINESS PACNEWS 1: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Pacific leaders push for stronger EU partnership
KOROR, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (ISLANDS BUSINESS) — Pacific ACP Leaders are pushing for stronger and more effective partnerships with the European Union, with implementation of the Samoa Agreement and delivery of tangible outcomes for Pacific countries at the centre of discussions in Palau.
Following the Small Island States Leaders Meeting, Pacific ACP Leaders met today at the Belau National Museum and Culture Centre (Ngarachamayong) as part of the high-level meetings leading into the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
Chaired by Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr, Leaders discussed the economic outlook for Pacific ACP States, opportunities to strengthen partnerships, implementation of the Samoa Agreement and advancing regional priorities under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
Welcoming Leaders, Whipps said the meeting came at a time of significant geopolitical pressures and uncertainty, making the region’s partnerships increasingly important.
“Today, and throughout this week, our discussions will focus on partnerships,” he said.
Whipps described the Samoa Agreement as an important mechanism underpinning the Pacific’s relationship with the European Union through the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS).
He encouraged countries that have yet to ratify the agreement to do so to enable its smooth implementation.
But Whipps said implementation must go beyond establishing institutions and procedures.
“Its value must be measured by what it enables the Pacific to achieve,” he said.
He identified stronger political engagement, better alignment of development cooperation with Pacific priorities, improved access to financing and stronger Pacific representation as key outcomes the partnership should deliver.
Whipps said the Pacific had benefited significantly from its longstanding relationship with the European Union, but partnerships must adapt to changing global conditions.
“Such partnerships must be agile and adaptable to keep up with the evolving world and environment around us,” he said.
Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Divavesi Waqa reinforced the importance of the partnership, saying EU assistance continued to play a key role in the development and resilience of Pacific countries.
“The European Union’s assistance to the Pacific region continues to be key in the realisation of the development aspirations and resilience of our region, and countries,” Waqa said.
He said the Samoa Agreement provided an important platform for advancing Pacific priorities reflected in the 2050 Strategy and Forum Leaders’ decisions.
“With the Forum advancing the 2050 Strategy and the Review of the Regional Architecture, the Secretariat’s mandate to lead the implementation of the Samoa Agreement becomes both highly relevant and critical,” Waqa said.
Waqa also stressed the importance of the Pacific’s role within the OACPS, saying the organisation must respond to a rapidly changing global environment.
“Similar to the goals of our own organisational review, the OACPS must be fit for purpose, inclusive, and able to respond to the changing dynamics of our relationship with the European Union,” he said.
A revised Costed Implementation Plan has been developed to provide a practical framework for implementing the Pacific Regional Protocol.
Leaders also received an update on the Pacific Climate Champions ahead of COP31, keeping climate action firmly on the regional agenda. Discussions here in Koror focus on ensuring the Pacific’s external partnerships remain aligned with regional priorities and deliver practical benefits for Pacific countries and their people…. PACNEWS
SOL – POLITICS: SOLOMON ISLANDS GOVT PACNEWS 1: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Solomon Islands Attorney General Suri rejects allegations as “false and misleading”
HONIARA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (SOLOMON GOVT) — Solomon Islands Attorney General Gabriel Suri has rejected allegations made by former Justice Minister Clezy Rore, calling them false and misleading.
Speaking Wednesday, Suri said the issues were never raised with him directly during his appointment.
“I would have addressed this immediately if the former Minister had raised it officially with me,” Suri said. “Instead, I was welcomed into the role and even hosted a welcome party by the former Minister.”
He said raising the matter now, rather than at the time, undermines the credibility of the claims.
Suri also addressed questions on remuneration.
He explained that externally recruited Solicitors General and Legal Drafters are paid at higher rates.
Because of this, he believes the Attorney General’s salary should serve as a benchmark when government reviews pay for the Director of Public Prosecutions, Public Solicitor, judges and magistrates.
“The responsibility to review and adjust those salaries lies with Government, not with me personally,” he said.
Suri clarified the difference between a permanent career Attorney General and a contracted Attorney General. Only a contracted Attorney General has the right to negotiate remuneration.
He confirmed his own contract was negotiated with the Secretary to Cabinet and Deputy Secretary to Cabinet, with the Cabinet Secretary signing on behalf of Government.
Suri said the shift to a contracted Attorney General model began when former Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare dismissed then-Attorney General Primo Afeau and appointed Julian Moti.
“That decision fundamentally changed the structure of the office,” he said.
“I stand by the terms of my contract. It was negotiated in good faith and accepted by Government,” he said…. PACNEWS
SAMOA – POLITICS/COURT: SAMOA GLOBAL NEWS PACNEWS 1: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Lise Marie Schmidt pleads guilty to misleading Police with damaging lies about former Samoan PM
APIA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (SAMOA GLOBAL NEWS) — A woman who wrote a letter to the Police Commissioner copying the Head of State with serious allegations against Samoa’s first woman Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mataafa, has changed her stance mid-trial, and pleaded guilty to nine charges of misleading police, and one charge of conspiracy to defeat the course of justice.
Lise-Marie Schmidt had originally faced 19 charges. Nine of misleading police, nine of fabricating evidence, and one count of conspiracy to defeat the course of justice.
In her letter to Police which she now says were all lies, Lise Marie Schmidt alleged Fiame Naomi Mataafa was a co-conspirator in the horrific murder of Dr Caroline Sinavaiana-Gabbard who was found dead at Papalii’s GaluMoana Theatre at Vaivase-uta, on Sunday 26 May 2024.
Author Papalii Sia Figiel was found guilty if murder, however, before the Court handed down her sentence, the renowned author took her own life in her cell at Tanumalala prison.
Lise Marie had originally pleaded not guilty to all charges and stuck to her story that Mataafa had met with her and instructed her to hide evidence linked to the murder of Dr Caroline Sinavaiana-Gabbard.
Lise Marie’s guilty plea means she also lied to Police that she was in possession of Dr Caroline’s phone, which she had claimed contained evidence that placed Samoa’s then Prime Minister as a co-conspirator of the murder.
Lise Marie Schmidt’s trial began on Monday this week in the District Court of Samoa before Judge Papalii Alalatoa Rosella Papalii.
Prosecution had listed 36 witnesses including Fiame Naomi Mataafa, who has suffered severe online abuse and reputational damage due to Lise Marie’s allegations that she was involved in the murder of Dr Caroline Sinavaiana-Gabbard.
Papalii Sia Figiel was found guilty in August 2025 for the death of Dr Caroline after the Court heard the horrific details of the brutal murder that took place at Papalii’s GaluMoana Theatre at Vaivase-tai in May 2024.
Lise Marie’s hearing was scheduled for this whole week, and on the first day, Prosecution presented the same witnesses who had also testified during the Figiel murder trial.
However, on the second day of the trial, lawyers requested closed door discussions in the Judge’s chambers.
When Court resumed on Tuesday afternoon, defense counsel Mapusua Tanya Toalioa asked the Court to vacate her client’s not guilty pleas to the 9 counts of misleading police. She then pleaded guilty to all charges of misleading police.
In what appears to have been a plea bargain, Prosecution accepted Lise Marie’s guilty pleas but then withdrew the nine charges of fabricating evidence which were all closely linked.
Prosecutor Magele Su’a Leone Su’a-Mailo then asked for an adjournment to consider whether or not to proceed with the final charge of conspiracy to defeat the course of justice.
When the matter was called Wednesday afternoon, Prosecutor Su’a Magele Leone informed Judge Alalatoa Rosella Papalii that they wished to proceed with the one remaining charge but amended it to “attempt to pervert the course of justice.”
However, defense counsel Maposua Tanya Toailoa told the Court her client wished to accept the amended charge.
“Your honor, defense would like to make an application to vacate a not guilty plea to guilty on the charge,” said Maposua.
Her Honour Judge Papalii Rosella granted the application and adjourned the matter for sentencing next year 16 March 2027.
She also ordered the defendant to refrain from making comments towards the complainant on social media.
Lise Marie Schmidt’s false statements and lies not only affected Fiame Naomi Mataafa as a senior politician and public figure, but also a matter of national security, as Mata’afa held the position of Prime Minister of Samoa.
Lise claimed that Mata’afa had instructed her to take possession of Gabbard’s phone and tablet and keep them secure.
She lied and said she had examined Gabbard’s phone and found photographs and a video relating to Gabbard and Sia Figiel; and that a recording captured a telephone conversation between Figiel and Mata’afa.
Other statements covered by the guilty pleas included Schmidt’s claims that Mata’afa sought to conceal Gabbard’s devices from Police, and allegations concerning subsequent communications and meetings with Mata’afa at Taumeasina Island Resort…. PACNEWS
TUVALU – SECURITY: TUVALU POLICE PACNEWS 1: Thu 03 Sep 2026
First batch of TPS officers deployed to UNMISS
FUNAFUTI, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (TUVALU POLICE) — The Tuvalu Police Service (TPS) has marked a significant milestone with the deployment of its first four officers to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
Following a successful two-week induction programme, the officers have now commenced their duties, with two posted to Juba, the capital of South Sudan, and two to Bor, Jonglei State.
This deployment reflects the TPS commitment to supporting international peacekeeping, peace, security, and stability.
“We are proud of our four officers as they represent Tuvalu and the Tuvalu Police Service on the international stage. We congratulate them and wish them a safe and successful mission.
“May God guide, protect, and watch over our officers throughout their service. We stand proudly behind them and look forward to welcoming them home safely, said a statement from TPS…. PACNEWS
PNG – MEDIA: NBC PNG PACNEWS 1: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Journalists strengthen skills in ethical election reporting and investigative journalism
PORT MORESBY, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (NBC PNG) — Journalists from various media organisations across Papua New Guinea are enhancing their knowledge and skills in ethical election reporting and investigative journalism through a week-long workshop in Port Moresby.
The training, funded by the European Union through the United Nations Development Programme [UNDP], began on Monday and will conclude on Friday. It brings together reporters, editors and media practitioners to improve the quality, accuracy and fairness of election-related reporting ahead of future electoral processes.
The workshop focuses on key areas including ethical journalism, investigative reporting techniques, voter education, combating misinformation and ensuring balanced coverage of candidates and political issues.
Facilitators stressed that a free, fair and credible election depends on an informed public, and that the media has a critical responsibility in providing citizens with accurate and impartial information.
Participants are being equipped with investigative tools to report on issues such as electoral integrity, transparency, intimidation, vote-buying and misinformation, while maintaining professional standards of fairness and independence.
UNDP representatives highlighted that access to reliable information is a fundamental right of every citizen and plays a vital role in strengthening democracy. By empowering journalists with investigative and ethical reporting skills, the programme aims to promote transparency, accountability and public trust in the electoral process.
Media practitioners attending the workshop said the training would enhance their ability to produce fact-based stories that inform voters, amplify community voices and contribute to free, fair and inclusive elections in Papua New Guinea…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
PAC – INVESTMENT: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 03 Sep 2026
U.S unveils more than $150 million deal in Pacific investments and assistance
KOROR, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — The United States will spend upwards of US$150 million on projects and initiatives in the Pacific.
The U.S State Department said the Trump Administration is reorienting Pacific relationships towards “championing U.S enterprise and investments”, mirroring its approach to much of the developing world.
The State Department’s second top diplomat, Christopher Landau, has been on the Pacific meeting circuit regularly since February, when leaders were invited to Honolulu to hobnob with U.S investors and military officers.
Its biggest spend is a fuel security deal that, pending U.S Congress, would dole out US$60m to fix up energy infrastructure and build storage capacity.
The big winners of the U.S’ lolly scramble are the Cook Islands – with US$50 million for its Penhryn Atoll port announced on Tuesday, and the Compact of Freely Associated States; Palau, Federated States of Micronesia and the Marshall Islands.
Palau, this year’s Pacific Islands Forum leaders summit hosts, will walk away from the meeting with cash for a new hospital upgrade, support to test and clean its drinking water, and a co-chair role on a new U.S-backed Pacific Policing Forum.
The Marshall Islands will receive technical assistance to modernise its mobile network, and each of the Compact states will see the return of the U.S Peace Corp, the highly sought after band of American volunteers.
Tonga, which is subject to a harsh travel ban into the U.S, is being given feasibility studies for fuel storage and data centres.
A second Pacific investment summit in Honolulu has also been promised in early 2027…. PACNEWS
PALAU – ECONOMY: ADB PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 03 Sep 2026
ADB backs Palau’s fiscal and energy resilience amid global shocks, expands North Pacific presence
KOROR, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (ADB) — Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda met with Palau President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. on the sidelines of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum to discuss how Palau’s sound fiscal management and a faster energy transition can reduce the country’s exposure to external shock, including the economic impacts of the Middle East conflict.
“Palau has built real fiscal strength, and that strength is what allows a small economy to absorb shocks it did not create,” said Kanda. “The Middle East conflict has pushed up the cost of imported fuel, and that lands directly on households, businesses, and public budgets. Fiscal buffers buy time. Diversifying energy supply is what reduces the exposure itself.”
To bring support closer to the countries it serves, ADB is expanding its presence across the North Pacific. Together with Presidents Whipps, Hilda C. Heine of the Marshall Islands, and Wesley W. Simina of the Federated States of Micronesia, Kanda launched the upgrade of ADB’s Pohnpei office to a North Pacific Subregional Office, which is expected to be operational before year-end and bring ADB closer to members working on shared challenges. A private sector hub in ADB’s Palau office will serve all three countries.
Kanda also witnessed the signing of a $12.5 million concessional loan that completes a programme supporting Palau’s fiscal resilience, cofinanced by New Zealand. The programme, led by Palauan institutions, has helped reduce public debt while strengthening revenue collection and rebuilding fiscal buffers. It has also established lasting institutions, including a Debt and Investment Office, funds to cushion the economy against downturns and disasters, and a National Planning Office to guide public spending.
ADB has more than $600 million in energy projects under implementation across the Pacific. In the region, energy security cannot be achieved alone. Regional cooperation lets countries share expertise, get better connected, attract investment, and build energy systems that are more resilient to external shocks. In Palau, diesel generates about three-quarters of electricity, leaving households and businesses exposed whenever global fuel prices rise. Accelerating the build-out of renewables, together with the grids, storage, and skilled people needed to run them, offers Palau energy it can rely on and afford.
At the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, a leaders’ dialogue with Kanda highlighted ADB’s forthcoming Pacific Approach, which will guide the bank’s partnership with 12 Pacific members through 2030. At a separate dialogue, Kanda will set out ADB’s approach to the region’s energy transition, including grid modernisation, battery storage, and utility capacity. Throughout the Forum, he is also meeting with leaders of Pacific Island countries to discuss ADB’s support for their national priorities.
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—50 from the region…. PACNEWS
FIJI – VISA: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Fiji, U.S advance dialogue on visa arrangements
SUVA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FIJI GOVT) — Fiji has proposed establishing a technical-level working group with the United States to chart a clear pathway towards the eventual removal of the visa bond requirement for Fijian nationals.
The proposal was raised by Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Sakiasi Ditoka, during a bilateral meeting with U.S Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Palau Tuesday, on the margins of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting.
Minister Ditoka said Fiji was committed to working constructively with U.S officials to address visa compliance concerns and identify clear benchmarks that could support a review of the requirement.
The two sides also discussed Fiji’s engagement with the Millennium Challenge Corporation, human trafficking cooperation and wider U.S engagement in the Pacific, including support for regional peace and security…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS In Focus
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
PALAU| Surangel Whipps Jr: The unlikely Pacific Warrior standing up to China
KOROR, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FRONTLINE PACIFIC) — Surangel Whipps Jr. governs one of the Pacific’s smallest independent states, yet his presidency has placed Palau directly into one of the region’s most difficult diplomatic contests.
With fewer than 18,000 people, Palau has little of the economic or military power normally associated with countries willing to challenge Beijing. China is the world’s second-largest economy, a nuclear power and permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. Whipps has nevertheless resisted Chinese pressure over Palau’s diplomatic relationship with Taiwan while speaking publicly about tourism pressure, Chinese vessels entering Palauan waters and the right of small island states to make their own decisions.
Those tensions have followed leaders into Koror during the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting. Beijing objected to Taiwanese Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung’s presence in Palau during the gathering, continuing its opposition to Taiwan’s participation in international and regional affairs. China regards Taiwan as part of its territory and opposes official diplomatic recognition of Taipei.
Palau remains one of three Pacific Islands Forum members with diplomatic relations with Taiwan, alongside the Marshall Islands and Tuvalu. Palau established relations with Taipei in 1999 and retained them as other Pacific governments moved towards Beijing. Solomon Islands and Kiribati changed recognition in 2019, followed by Nauru in January 2024.
Whipps has described Palau’s position as a question of sovereignty. His message during the Forum captured his approach: “Our partners are welcome to sail with us, but they do not choose our destination.”
The president has previously accused Beijing of applying economic and political pressure linked to Palau’s relationship with Taiwan. Tourism has been a particularly sensitive point because Chinese visitors once made up a substantial share of arrivals. Whipps told the Associated Press in 2024 Chinese tourists had previously accounted for about 70 percent of visitors and accused Beijing of using tourism as political leverage.
The consequences are significant in an economy dependent on international travel, hotels, restaurants, diving, transport and related services. Whipps has resisted changing diplomatic recognition despite the potential economic cost and has sought stronger tourism and commercial links with other markets.
His loyalty to Taiwan has become one of the defining features of his foreign policy. During a visit to Australia in 2025, Whipps compared the relationship to a marriage and said commitments should remain “‘til death do us part.”
The businessman who now finds himself dealing with major-power rivalry did not begin his career in diplomacy. Whipps spent decades in private enterprise and served as chief executive of Surangel & Sons Company, helping develop the family business into a major Palauan employer. He studied business administration and economics at Andrews University in the United States before completing an MBA at UCLA.
He later entered politics, served in Palau’s Senate and won the presidency in 2020. Voters returned him to office in November 2024. His administration carries the Palauan phrase “A Kot a Rechad er Belau,” reflecting an emphasis on Palauan people and their economic interests.
Relations with China have also moved beyond diplomacy and tourism into maritime security.
Palau has reported Chinese research vessels entering waters claimed by the republic. In May 2026, the Chinese icebreaker Ji Di reportedly travelled about 74 kilometres inside Palauan waters and remained in the area for approximately 14 hours. ABC said it could not independently confirm the reported incursion. Previous Chinese vessel movements have also drawn concern in Koror, including activity near undersea communications infrastructure.
Whipps has questioned the presence of vessels carrying underwater research equipment near critical communications infrastructure. He has also criticised Chinese military activity in the Pacific, including Beijing’s intercontinental ballistic missile test into the ocean.
Geography gives Palau importance far beyond its population. The archipelago lies east of the Philippines and north of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, near maritime approaches linking East Asia with the central Pacific.
Palau also maintains a close security relationship with the United States through the Compact of Free Association. The country became independent in 1994 when the Compact entered into force. Palau conducts its own foreign affairs while Washington carries defence responsibilities and holds extensive defence access under the agreement.
U.S military infrastructure has expanded across Palau as Washington strengthens its presence in the western Pacific. Palau consequently sits at an important intersection: diplomatic relations with Taiwan, defence ties with the United States and geographical proximity to an area receiving increasing attention from Beijing and Washington.
Whipps has emerged from this environment as an unusual Pacific political figure. His government cannot compete with China through military strength or economic weight. His influence rests instead on the powers available to a sovereign state, deciding which governments Palau recognises, who enters its territory and how it responds when its maritime boundaries are challenged…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Forum Leaders and Key Stakeholders Advance Collective Action at the 55th Forum Leaders Meeting
KOROR, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (PIFS) — Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders held a series of Dialogues on 01 September 2026 as part of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting (55PIFLM).
Guided by this year’s theme, B.E.L.A.U. – Building Economies: Life. Action. Unity, the Forum Leaders gathered in Koror, Palau to exchange perspectives on the priorities, opportunities and challenges shaping the Blue Pacific region and to advance implementation of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
Chaired by the President of Palau and PIF Chair, Surangel Whipps Jr., the dialogues connected Forum Leaders with Heads of the Council of Regional Organisations of the Pacific (CROP), representatives of the private sector and civil society, Associate Members, Country Observers, Forum Observer Organisations, and Dialogue Partners.
Bringing together the length and breadth of the Forum family, the dialogues highlighted the value of inclusive regional cooperation in advancing shared Pacific priorities.
Forum Leaders and Heads of the CROP discussed how strengthened regional coordination supports coherent advice, implementation and accountability for Leaders’ priorities. Discussions covered digital transformation and artificial intelligence governance, renewable energy and energy security, climate and ocean priorities, and the Review of the Regional Architecture, including the transition towards a more coordinated One-CROP approach.
Forum Leaders also held its dialogue with regional civil society and private sector representatives to discuss the impacts of the energy and fuel crisis on households, communities, businesses and economies across the Blue Pacific.
In their dialogue with Associate Members and Country Observers, Leaders heard perspectives on the priorities, vulnerabilities and aspirations of the wider Forum family, reinforcing the need for regional processes and solutions that reflect the diversity of the Blue Pacific.
High level participation by the Forum Observer Organisations included the President of the Asian Development Bank, the Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, the Vice President of the World Bank and the Deputy Secretary General of the Commonwealth Secretariat. Discussions with them focused on the importance of international financing and development cooperation that is predictable, principled and responsive to Pacific priorities and circumstances.
Forum Leaders also had an opportunity to hold a dialogue with the Forum Dialogue Partners where all twenty-one of them attended at various levels of representations including Minister and Deputy or Vice Minister levels.
They discussed how international partnerships can remain responsive to Pacific priorities amid increasing pressure on development financing and growing competition for resources.
Discussions focused on targeted investment, strengthened development cooperation, and advancing implementation of the Pacific Roadmap for Economic Development in alignment with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
Support towards the capitalisation of the Pacific Resilience Facility were also offered including the announcement of a USD14 million pledge from the United Kingdom.
Together, the dialogues reinforced the role of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent as the region’s shared framework for collective action, bringing the Forum family and its key stakeholders together around shared priorities for the Blue Pacific…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Promoting Pacific Prosperity: U.S Engagement at the Pacific Islands Forum
KOROR, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (U.S EMBASSY) — The United States is a Pacific nation and has long stood with our Pacific friends and neighbors to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Our commitment to the security and prosperity of the Pacific Islands is steadfast, enduring, and a key pillar of our America First Foreign Policy.
On September 1, at the Pacific Islands Forum Partners Dialogue in Palau, Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau announced over $150 million in U.S support for Pacific Islands. He delivered this message directly to our partners, engaging with Pacific Islands leaders and ministers to reinforce the depth and durability of U.S partnerships in the region and announcing new U.S-funded projects and investments in the Pacific Islands that aim to deliver economic prosperity and security for Americans and Pacific Islanders.
The United States’ continued participation in the Pacific Islands Forum reflects the importance we place on the Pacific Islands as a vital part of the Indo-Pacific region. When the Pacific Islands are stable, secure and prosperous, the United States is too. Under President Trump and Secretary Rubio’s leadership, we are prioritising commercial diplomacy and reorienting our foreign assistance programmes in the Pacific around championing U.S enterprise and investments in enabling infrastructure that supports private sector-led economic growth.
Ensuring Energy Security
– Regional Energy Security Initiative: Working with Congress, the Department intends to provide $60 million to help Pacific Islands countries address the ongoing global energy crisis, including expanding fuel storage capacity and supporting grid stability.
– Fuel Supply Infrastructure for Tonga: The U.S Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), with funding from the U.S Department of State, will strengthen fuel supply reliability and energy security through a feasibility study to upgrade Tonga’s port facilities, fuel storage capacity, pipeline infrastructure and market-oriented regulatory practices.
Building Critical Infrastructure
– Palau Hospital Relocation: The United States, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, along with Taiwan as a key partner of Palau, will support the development and operation of a new, modern hospital facility, subject to the outcomes of the project feasibility study, ensuring it meets the long-term health and infrastructure needs of the Palauan people. This partnership demonstrates our enduring commitment to Pacific partners and to the shared development principles that underpin a resilient and prosperous region.
– Upgrading Penrhyn (Omoka) Port: The U.S Department of State, working with Congress and in partnership with New Zealand and the Cook Islands, intends to upgrade the Penrhyn atoll’s Omoka Port. This project builds on the Critical Minerals Framework the United States and the Cook Islands signed in February 2026 and will deliver safety and security benefits and expand transport links and economic opportunities for the Cook Islands and American people.
– Strengthening Transportation Linkages in the Marshall Islands: USTDA has approved funding for technical assistance for the Marshall Islands Ports Authority to help modernise the country’s two primary ports: Majuro and Ebeye. The project’s goals are to increase freight capacity, improve port efficiency, and strengthen supply chain reliability. USTDA has also approved funding for technical assistance to help modernise the Amata Kabua International Airport, including airfield and terminal facilities. The assistance will address anticipated growth and operational improvements over a 20-year horizon and facilitate aviation partnership opportunities for U.S industry.
Expanding Commercial Diplomacy
– Second Pacific Investment Summit: The inaugural U.S-Pacific Islands Investment Summit at the East-West Center in Honolulu in February 2026 generated several successful economic opportunities and business deals for U.S and Pacific Islands businesses across several sectors including infrastructure, critical minerals, supply chains, energy, tourism, food security, financial services, and the digital economy. To continue to foster U.S-Pacific Islands private sector connections and investments, the United States intends to support a second summit to be held in early 2027.
Promoting Trusted Digital Technology
– Data Center Infrastructure for Tonga: USTDA, with funding from the U.S Department of State, is supporting a feasibility study to modernise Tonga’s national data center and network, enabling secure, resilient hosting for government systems and public services. The study advances a broader U.S effort to build Tonga’s digital infrastructure on trusted American technology, alongside State Department support for secure cloud migration.
– Mobile Network Modernisation for the Marshall Islands: USTDA, with funding from the U.S Department of State, will provide technical assistance to support the modernisation of the nationwide mobile network in the Republic of the Marshall Islands. The assistance will identify optimal technology options, financing pathways and implementation strategies for the Marshall Islands National Telecommunications Authority.
– Cloud Global Pacific Programme: The U.S Department of State plans to expand upon successful programming in Tonga and Palau to accelerate additional Pacific Island governments’ adoption of resilient cloud-based technologies. Adopting trusted cloud services expands the digital economy, creates opportunities for economic prosperity, strengthens cybersecurity, and increases operational continuity.
– Secure Telecom Regulation and Digital Transformation Programmes in the Pacific Islands: S. Department’s Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy (CDP) has funded a series of programmes, coordinated by the U.S Department of Commerce’s Commercial Law Development Programme (CLDP), to strengthen ICT regulatory capacity, expand digital infrastructure, and modernise regulatory and licensing models, including a PNG Secure ICT Investment Screening Workshop and Pacific Islands Telecom Regulator Workshop, and Study Tour. Additionally, CDP led the U.S-Pacific Islands Digital Transformation Accelerator conference, held alongside the Pacific Islands Telecom Regulators’ Forum, generating 32 matchmaking sessions between U.S technology companies and PIC governments, advancing potential leads for U.S AI exports and digital sector investment.
Advancing Law Enforcement Cooperation and Maritime Security
– U.S-Pacific Islands Conference of Police Ministers (COPMIN): The United States and Palau will co-chair the inaugural U.S-Pacific Islands Conference of Police Ministers (COPMIN). COPMIN will focus on maritime security, drug trafficking, and cybercrime, and illicit finance.
– Pacific Regional IUU Fishing Project: The U.S Department of State, working with Congress, plans to provide $17 million to counter illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the Pacific Islands, focused on legal support to update national laws, policies, and regulations to align to regional IUU fishing strategic objectives, develop compliance officer capacity through certified training programmes, and deploy new technologies to increase non-human monitoring capacity.
Deepening Scientific and Technical Cooperation
– Seabed Mapping, Exploration, and Characterisation: The U.S Department of State, working with Congress, plans to provide support for seabed mapping, exploration, and characterisation to inform Pacific Island government decision making on potential seabed minerals development within national jurisdiction and related national regulatory frameworks.
– Drinking Water Sampling Project: The U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in partnership with Taiwan, will work with Palau to conduct a comprehensive drinking water sampling project on the island’s drinking water sources and wells. The project will also provide training for Palau drinking water operators and environmental lab regulatory staff on proper sampling and logistical techniques.
Expanding People to People Ties
– Peace Corps Letter of Intent to Return to Compact of Free Association Nations: The Peace Corps has signed a letter of intent to establish the North Pacific programme with the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. This step builds on decades of partnership: more than 4,400 Volunteers served in Micronesia and Palau between 1966 and 2018, and more than 140 served in the Marshall Islands from 1966 to 1996. The agency completed its re-opening of Peace Corps/Palau in July 2026…. PACNEWS
