In this bulletin:
1. VAN — Vanuatu to sign Nakamal Agreement with Australia, Namele Agreement with China: PM Napat
2. PACIFIC — AOSIS welcome UN Climate vote as push for accountability grows
3. PACIFIC— Australia hails Pacific leadership after landmark ICJ vote
4. PACIFIC — EU backs UN Climate ruling, Calls for faster action on fossil fuels
5. PACIFIC — WHO Pacific director pushes physical activity to tackle youth Mental health crisis
6. PACIFIC — PM Wale, Forum SG Waqa discuss fuel crisis and regional security
7. PACIFIC — Australian Climate Change Minister Bowen to back electrification at UN climate summit
8. FIJI — Fiji High Court discontinues case against cop killer accused pair
9. AUST — Australia gives U.S ‘edge’ against China, says Trump’s pick for Canberra
10. PACNEWS BIZ — World Bank commits nearly VT3 billion to strengthen Fisheries Ministry
11. PACNEWS BIZ — Vanuatu PM assures Parliament Air Vanuatu recovery on track
12. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji Minibus operators disappointed over exclusion from fuel support
13. PACNEWS DIGEST — War is becoming a death sentence for women and girls
VAN – SECURITY/DIPLOMACY: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS 3: Fri 22 May 2026
Vanuatu to sign Nakamal Agreement with Australia, Namele Agreement with China: PM Napat
PORT MORESBY, 22 MAY 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST) —-Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat has confirmed the government will sign the landmark Nakamal Agreement with Australia, as well as the Namele Agreement with China.
PM Napat revealed this in Parliament after Union of Moderate Parties (UMP) Member of Parliament for Tanna constituency, Andrew Wilbur Napuat, asked during Oral Questions time if the PM could give the Government’s stand on the months long negotiated Nakamal Agreement, whether it will be signed or not, and if it is possible for MPs to have access to its content.
PM Napat then revealed there are two agreements that the Government will sign.
“The first is the Nakamal Agreement that the Government will sign with Australia, the other is the Namele Agreement that the Government plans to sign,” he said.
PM Napat said many have raised questions in relation to the content of the Nakamal Agreement and that it has taken some time for a few of the ministers and a taskforce that spearheaded the negotiations. He said the only delay is because “a lot of the wordings in the Nakamal Agreement undermined our sovereignty”.
“The Council of Ministers (COM) is of the view that we cannot sign anything that undermines our sovereignty, so it took some time for us to go back and forth with the Office of the Attorney General (OAG), which can provide clear directions on the content, especially on two critical issues in the Nakamal Agreement,” he explained.
“The first is on Security and the second deals with Critical Infrastructure. These are the two areas of concern.
“In the first draft of the Nakamal Agreement, Australia stated that for any critical infrastructure, we are to ask for advice or seek approval from them. This already undermines our sovereignty.
“It’s words like these that we are not satisfied with and thus it takes time for us to renegotiate until everyone is happy with the content, then we can come back to COM for the COM to give its final blessing for us to sign the Nakamal Agreement.”
The PM said the Nakamal Agreement is not what the general public may perceive as a security pact agreement.
“It’s just an agreement as itself, it has nothing to do with security pact except for a clause inside the Nakamal Agreement that relates to security, and if everyone can recall we passed under the National Security Act, one of the changes was we do not want to allow any outside force, or even use of military inside our territory. This overrides every agreement that we sign,” he explained further.
“Inside the clauses of the Nakamal Agreement, there are provisions that if we are not satisfied with it, we can always walk out. It does not mean it is an agreement that we can’t get out of.
“There are also provisions that cover whether we agree or disagree with certain aspects, we can return to the table to discuss it.
“So it is a framework that after the signing, there will be supplementary agreements that we will sign, specifically to do with different sectors which we will negotiate out of.
“This is just a summary of what is in place. So the OAG has given clearance to the wordings of this Nakamal Agreement for us to proceed to sign.”
PM Napat then elaborated on the Namele Agreement with China.
“The Namele Agreement with China… is another strategic cooperation and has nothing to do with security pact,” he said.
“Unfortunately our development partners use their interests to undermine us and that is why we stand to say ‘we are friends to all and enemies to none’. We do not want to favour one party over the other, we are open to every donor partner coming in that’s why we took quite a while to look at the wordings.
“The Namele Agreement, as we speak, COM has already mandated the Office of the Prime Minister to execute it, and clear it also, that is just another strategic cooperation.”
The PM added the information was held back and not shared with members because of confidentiality matters in the agreement until COM, through the National Security Council, can clear it, but he does not see any restrictions on sharing the information with MPs….PACNEWS
PAC – CLIMATE CHANGE: PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Fri 22 May 2026
AOSIS welcome UN Climate vote as push for accountability grows
By Pita Ligaiula
NEW YORK, 22 MAY 2026 (PACNEWS)—Alliance of Small Island States and climate advocates have welcomed the overwhelming United Nations General Assembly vote backing the International Court of Justice’s climate ruling, calling it a major step for climate justice and global accountability.
The resolution, adopted by a strong majority of UN member states, follows the ICJ Advisory Opinion that found countries have legal obligations under international law to address climate change.
Speaking on behalf of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), Belize’s UN representative Janine Coye-Felson said the resolution marked a defining moment for international law and climate action.
“When future generations look back at this moment, they will ask whether we rose to meet the defining crisis of our time with the full force of international law. Today, this General Assembly answers: yes,” she told the UN plenary.
Coye-Felson said the resolution and the ICJ opinion confirmed that climate obligations extended beyond the Paris Agreement.
“Climate change is not governed only” by the Paris Agreement, she said, adding that “climate justice requires the application of the full breath of international law”.
The Pacific island nations led the diplomatic push for the resolution alongside Latin American countries and the European Union.
The EU said the vote showed countries were moving beyond merely acknowledging the ICJ ruling.
“With the adoption of the resolution, countries are moving beyond ‘simply recognising’ the ICJ’s work and instead ‘actively upholding the legal integrity’ of the multilateral system by seeking to implement the court’s recommendations,” the bloc said.
At the same time, the EU warned the next phase should not create new legal mechanisms on state responsibility.
The adopted resolution calls on countries to reduce emissions by tripling renewable energy capacity, transitioning away from fossil fuels in energy systems and phasing out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies.
It also asks the UN Secretary-General to prepare a report by September 2027 on ways countries can comply with obligations linked to the ICJ findings.
France’s UN Ambassador Jerome Bonnafont said dependence on fossil fuels remained a major climate and economic risk.
“Science clearly establishes their role in climate change,” Bonnafont said.
“The recent increase in oil and gas prices, which have soared because of the war in Iran, underscores the cost vulnerability of this dependence.”
Environmental organisations and Pacific youth groups also welcomed the vote.
Vishal Prasad, whose group first pushed for the ICJ advisory opinion, said the resolution was a breakthrough for frontline communities.
“The world has not only reaffirmed that ruling, but committed to making it a reality.”
“This must be a turning point in accountability for damaging the climate. Communities on the frontlines, like in the Pacific, have been waiting far too long and continue to pay too high a price for the actions of others.”
“The journey of this idea from classrooms in the Pacific to The Hague and the United Nations gives us continued hope that when people organise, the world can be moved to act.”
The Global Climate and Health Alliance (GCHA) also welcomed the result.
Executive Director, Jeni Miller said the resolution sent a strong message about climate justice and public health.
“UNGA resolution sends a clear message: the era of impunity for fossil fuel-driven harm is coming to an end.”
“By welcoming and advancing the ICJ Advisory Opinion, governments have affirmed that climate action is not optional, it is a legal, moral, and public health obligation.”
“This is a powerful signal supporting the rightful claims of frontline communities, health workers, young people, Indigenous Peoples, and all those demanding a fair, sustainable, and healthy future,” Miller said……PACNEWS
PAC- CLIMATE CHANGE: PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Fri 22 May 2026
Australia hails Pacific leadership after landmark ICJ vote
By Sanjeshni Kumar
NEW YORK, 22 MAY 2026 (PACNEWS)—Australia has shown its support behind a landmark United Nations General Assembly resolution welcoming the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) advisory opinion on climate change, while acknowledging differing views among states on some aspects of the Court’s conclusions.
The resolution, adopted by the UN General Assembly on Wednesday by 141 votes, reinforces that countries have legal obligations under international law to address climate change and prevent further environmental harm.
Speaking after the vote, Australia’s Permanent representative to the United Nations, James Larsen, praised Pacific nations for their leadership in advancing the issue to the world’s highest court.
“Climate change affects every nation, but nowhere acutely than in the Pacific. For our region, this is not a distant warning, but a daily reality,” Ambassador Larsen said.
He congratulated Vanuatu for its leadership, saying Pacific countries and Pacific youth had been at the forefront of calls for stronger global climate action.
“Pacific countries have long led the world in calling for stronger climate action,” he said,adding that Australia was “proud to stand with you in supporting this resolution.”
Larsen said the broad backing for the resolution underscored the need for collective action.
“The breadth of support matters. Climate change cannot be solved by any country acting alone. It demands global cooperation, and multilateral engagement remains key,” he said.
Australia welcomed the ICJ’s advisory opinion as “an important contribution” in clarifying the obligations of states in responding to the climate emergency, Larsen said, noting that the Court had favourably considered Pacific Islands Forum initiatives on climate change-related sea level rise.
He described sea level rise as “an issue of profound significance for our region” and said Australia looked forward to continued discussions at the United Nations, including negotiations on a political declaration expected to be adopted by world leaders in September.
At the same time, Larsen said Australia was still carefully considering the Court’s opinion and stressed that support for the resolution did not mean Australia agreed with every aspect of the advisory opinion.
“Our support for this resolution should not be interpreted as our agreement with every element of the advisory opinion, nor should it be read as our acceptance of the way the resolution interprets each of the Court’s conclusions,” he said.
“Rather, our support reflects our recognition of the seriousness of the climate crisis, the need for concrete action, and the positive role of the International Court of Justice opinion in support of global efforts.”
Larsen said Australia remained committed to meeting its obligations under international law to protect the climate system and acknowledged the importance of historical responsibility, particularly for developed countries.
“Historical responsibility remains important, and as a developed country, Australia will continue to do our part,” he said.
He also stressed that achieving the goals of the UN climate framework and the Paris Agreement would require “sustained ambition, especially from major emitters past, present and future.”
As it prepares to lead negotiations for COP31, Larsen said Australia would continue working with all countries to accelerate climate action.
“The case for multilateralism has never been clearer,” he said, adding that Australia would work “to accelerate global climate action at home and in support of our region,” he said…..PACNEWS
PAC – CLIMATE CHANGE: PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Fri 22 May 2026
EU backs UN Climate ruling, Calls for faster action on fossil fuels
By Pita Ligaiula
NEW YORK, 22 MAY 2026 (PACNEWS)— The European Union (EU) has welcomed the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of a landmark resolution supporting the International Court of Justice’s Advisory Opinion on climate change, calling it a major step in strengthening international law and global climate action.
In a statement delivered at the UN General Assembly Wednesday, the EU and its Member States praised Vanuatu for leading the process over the past three and a half years and said the adoption of the resolution reflected a shared global commitment to addressing climate change.
“Today’s adoption of the resolution welcoming the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice on obligations of States in relation to climate change, is a testament to our collective engagement, responsibility, and shared aim to address the effects of climate change according to the Advisory Opinion.”
The EU said the Court had provided important legal clarification on the obligations of States in relation to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
“The Court did just that. It provided the international community with important clarifications on the scope of the obligations of States in relation to climate change caused by anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions.”
The statement noted that the Court confirmed countries that are parties to the Paris Agreement are obligated to “prepare, communicate and maintain successive and progressive Nationally Determined Contributions.”
The EU also reaffirmed its support for the International Court of Justice(ICJ) and international law.
“The EU and its Member States are united in their staunch support for the Court, and more broadly, for the strict observance and development of international law.”
The bloc warned that climate change was no longer a future threat but an immediate global crisis affecting every region, including Europe.
“Climate change profoundly affects everyone.”
The EU cited the recent European State of the Climate 2025 report, which found Europe experienced record-breaking marine heatwaves, devastating wildfires and severe drought last year.
“The report confirmed that Europe warmed twice as fast as the global average over the past 30 years, making it the fastest-warming continent on Earth.”
The EU said it remained committed to climate adaptation and mitigation, including its targets to reduce net emissions by at least 55 percent by 2030 and 90 percent by 2040 compared to 1990 levels.
The statement also highlighted the importance of climate finance and support for vulnerable countries.
“Climate finance is not only something we have committed to under the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement but also a tangible way of expressing solidarity with those most affected.”
The EU said it remained one of the world’s largest contributors to climate finance, including support for adaptation funding and the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage.
The bloc strongly backed the resolution’s references to limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius and moving away from fossil fuels.
“We stand firmly behind the unequivocal references to the collective temperature goal of holding the increase in the global average temperature to 1.5o above pre-industrial levels.”
The EU also supported efforts to triple renewable energy capacity, double energy efficiency improvements by 2030 and transition away from fossil fuels “in a just, orderly and equitable manner.”
On sea-level rise, the EU acknowledged the significance of the Court’s findings for Pacific island nations and vulnerable coastal states.
“The Court made a significant contribution to the clarification of the current state of international law in this area and expressed the view that once a State is established, the disappearance of one of its constituent elements would not necessarily entail the loss of its statehood.”
However, the EU cautioned against creating new legal mechanisms beyond the scope of the Court’s opinion.
“The envisaged report should not go beyond the scope of the Advisory Opinion. It should neither seek to establish new mechanisms nor engage in any determination of State responsibility.”
The EU concluded by saying it would continue working with the international community to address climate change through existing global agreements, including the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement.
“The EU and its Member States are pleased to have constructively engaged in the process that led to the adoption of this Resolution. We will continue to work together with the rest of international community in all relevant fora in order to address the effects of climate change.”….PACNEWS
PAC – HEALTH: PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Fri 22 May 2026
WHO Pacific director pushes physical activity to tackle youth Mental health crisis
By Pita Ligaiula
GENEVA, 22 MAY 2026 (PACNEWS)— WHO Western Pacific regional director Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala has called for physical activity to be integrated into mental health policies, warning that young people are facing growing pressures from climate stress, misinformation and rapid technological change.
Speaking at a World Health Assembly side-session in Geneva, Dr Piukala said governments must act urgently to improve youth mental wellbeing through sport and physical activity.
“Integrating physical activity into #MentalHealth policies – an urgent imperative to safeguard the wellbeing of young people in the Western Pacific and around the world,” Dr Piukala said.
The session was organised by the Commonwealth Secretariat and the World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry and brought together health ministers, mental health advocates and Olympic champion Mo Farah.
Dr Piukala said young people were growing up during a period of major global disruption.
“Young people today are growing up at a time of profound change. They are navigating uncertainty and disruption at a formative stage of life – shaped by rapid social transitions, climate and environmental stress, disinformation in online spaces, and the accelerating influence of artificial intelligence.”
“How we respond to these challenges will shape not only the mental wellbeing of the youth of today, but also the resilience, cohesion and health of our societies for generations to come.”
He said the evidence linking physical activity to mental health was clear.
“The evidence is clear and consistent: physical activity matters.”
Dr Piukala highlighted WHO recommendations that children and adolescents aged five to 17 should engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily.
“Regular physical activity is associated with better emotional wellbeing, including reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, and positive effects on cognitive and brain health.”
He said girls often faced greater barriers to participation in sport and exercise.
“This is especially critical for girls, who often face additional barriers to participation – whether social norms, safety concerns, or unequal access – making inclusive and safe opportunities essential.”
Dr Piukala warned that global inactivity levels among young people remained high.
“Yet globally, almost 80% of adolescents do not meet recommended levels of physical activity.”
“This is one of the most significant missed opportunities we have to improve both mental and physical health outcomes.”
He said schools and communities had a major role to play in building healthier lifestyles.
“All young people – regardless of gender, geography, or background – should have safe, supportive opportunities to be active.”
“Schools are among the few settings that reach nearly all young people daily. When physical activity is embedded into school and community life, it helps establish healthy routines, strengthens social connection, and supports mental wellbeing early in life – with benefits that carry into adulthood.”
Dr Piukala stressed that health systems alone could not solve the issue.
“Health systems cannot act alone. Education, sport, transport, urban planning and community systems all influence whether young people have safe, inclusive opportunities to be active.”
Dr Piukala said the Commonwealth was well positioned to lead efforts to improve youth mental health through sport and physical activity.
“The Commonwealth is uniquely positioned to lead here. With its diversity, shared values and strong youth leadership, it offers a powerful platform to combine evidence, policy leadership and community action – ensuring that sport and physical activity are not privileges for a few, but foundations for mental wellbeing for all,” he said….PACNEWS
PAC – DIPLOMACY: SOL GOVT PACNEWS 3: Fri 22 May 2026
PM Wale, Forum SG Waqa discuss fuel crisis and regional security
HONIARA, 22 MAY 2026 (SOL GOVT) — Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale has received a courtesy visit from Forum Secretary General, Baron Divavesi Waqa as the Special Forum Foreign Ministers meet in Honiara today for high-level talks on the growing Middle East crisis and its impact on Pacific economies.
During the meeting in Honiara, Secretary General Waqa congratulated Prime Minister Wale on his recent election and praised Solomon Islands for its peaceful political transition.
“Secretary General Waqa congratulated Prime Minister Wale on his recent election and acknowledged Solomon Islands’ peaceful leadership transition as a strong reflection of its commitment to democratic governance.”
Waqa also acknowledged Wale’s new role as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, saying the region needed “bold and steady leadership” as Pacific countries face mounting regional and global challenges.
“The Secretary General also congratulated Prime Minister Wale on his important regional role as Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, noting that the Blue Pacific requires bold and steady leadership at this critical time as the region deals with the ongoing challenges.”
A key focus of the discussions was the regional fuel crisis and efforts to coordinate a Pacific-wide response.
“The courtesy meeting provided an opportunity for the Secretary General to brief Prime Minister Wale on key regional priorities, including the current fuel crisis and ongoing efforts to support a coordinated regional response.”
The two leaders also discussed Solomon Islands’ role in leading regional cooperation and collective action as Forum Chair.
“Discussions also focused on Solomon Islands’ leadership as Forum Chair in guiding regional dialogue, cooperation, and collective action.”
Waqa reaffirmed the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat’s support for Wale both as Prime Minister and Forum Chair.
“Secretary General Waqa reaffirmed the Forum Secretariat’s full support to Prime Minister Wale, both as Solomon Islands’ national leader and Forum Chair.”
Prime Minister Wale thanked Waqa and his delegation for the visit and reiterated Solomon Islands’ commitment to working closely with the Forum Secretariat and regional leaders.
“Prime Minister Wale acknowledged the Secretary General and his delegation for the visit, sharing insights and the important discussions on issues affecting the region, highlighting his commitment to working closely with the Secretariat and all Forum Regional Leaders as the current Chair.”
Meanwhile, Waqa also met Solomon Islands Foreign Affairs Minister Rick Houenipwela for the Special Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting.
The meeting will focus on the escalating Middle East crisis and its impact on Pacific economies, particularly fuel and energy security.
“The Special Session will focus on the evolving Middle East crisis and its impacts on Pacific economies, including energy and fuel security, and consider regional arrangements to strengthen coordination, preparedness, and collective response.”
Waqa again assured Solomon Islands of the Secretariat’s backing as Forum Chair during the critical regional discussions…PACNEWS
PAC – CLIMATE CHANGE: AAP PACNEWS 3: Fri 22 May 2026
Australian Climate Change Minister Bowen to back electrification at UN climate summit
COPENHAGEN, 22 MAY 2026 (AAP)—Australia and Turkey have revealed that the global oil crisis will prompt a major focus on electrification at the United Nations climate talks in November.
Australia and Turkey have flagged they will put vehicle electrification in the fast lane at this year’s United Nations climate summit, as the world grapples with the fallout from fuel shortages stemming from conflict in the Middle East.
Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen and his Turkish counterpart, Murat Kurum, co-hosted a ministerial meeting of 40 countries in Copenhagen on Wednesday and Thursday that will help shape the agenda of the COP31 conference in Antalya.
The annual Copenhagen talks are a pit stop on the way to the main summit and a chance to road test fresh ideas in an informal setting.
Bowen and Kurum nominated electrification as their big-ticket priority.
The transport sector accounts for 15 percent of total greenhouse gas emissions, the UN says.
“Higher oil prices are putting pressure on all our citizens from Suva to Sydney to Stockholm,” Mr Bowen said.
The talks emphasised that the renewables rollout also helps shore up energy independence, as countries deal with the biggest oil shock in world history.
“No one can sanction the sun, no one can blockade the wind,” Bowen said.
“Solar energy has to travel 150 million kilometres to earth, but it does not have to travel the 150 kilometres of the Strait of Hormuz.”
The ministers touched on the need for more rare earth minerals for car batteries. China has a monopoly on critical minerals processing.
“Of course, we will work with all countries that currently supply, but we also welcome other countries who are adding value for the first time,” Bowen said.
The growing popularity of electric vehicles – one in four cars sold globally runs on a battery – is a sign of optimism, Mr Bowen said.
Australians went from buying an electric vehicle once every 50 minutes four years ago to once every three minutes in April, Mr Bowen said.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s government introduced an electric car tax discount in 2022 that will be wound back over the next three years, according to the May budget.
The full tax discount will apply only to electric cars worth $75,000(US$53,544) and less from April 2027, purchased under novated leases, and will become a 25 percent fringe benefits tax cut for all electric vehicles under the luxury car tax threshold from April 2029.
But wen dismissed accusations of mixed messages and played down the Climate Council’s concerns that the move will put the handbrake on sales.
“We’ve saved the EV discount; it is still in place, we have just calibrated it to reflect the fact that there are many more affordable models in Australia,” he told AAP in Copenhagen.
“When we brought in the EV tax cut, there was no EV available for under $40,000, and now there are 10.”
Cars are not the only focus for electrification. Mr Kurum heaped praise on Denmark’s network of 12,000km of bike paths, as acting Danish climate minister Lars Aagaard highlighted the thousands of Danish families doing the daily school and kindergarten drop off with electric cargo bikes.
“You can commute longer … you get a more quiet city and you get clean air,” Aagaard said.
Pacific island nations Palau, Tuvalu, the Marshall Islands and Fiji were represented at the Copenhagen talks.
“The Pacific often gets sidelined at COPs… I want to change that,” Bowen said.
“I’ll be meeting with (Pacific island ministers) almost every day during Antalya … making sure they are fully in the loop and giving feedback to me.”
While in Copenhagen, Mr Bowen and other ministers dropped by Amalienborg Palace to meet with Danish King Frederik, who has a special interest in climate change.
He and his Australian-born wife Queen Mary, in March, undertook a state visit to Australia with a large Danish green energy business delegation in tow.
Denmark is a world leader in offshore wind energy and wants to help Australia with its green energy transition….PACNEWS
FIJI – COURTS: FIJI SUN PACNEWS 3: Fri 22 May 2026
Fiji High Court discontinues case against cop killer accused pair
SUVA, 22 MAY 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Murder proceedings against two men accused of killing a Lami-based police officer were discontinued in the Fiji High Court in Suva this morning after the State filed a nolle prosequi.
Keni Salawai, 42, and Jope Seniloli, 20, of Qauia appeared before Justice Daniel Goundar, who formally discharged the matter following the filing by senior legal officer Sadaf Shameem.
Justice Goundar told the court that the law does not require the State to provide reasons for withdrawing charges.
However, he clarified that the State retains the right to refile the case in the future.
The two men had been charged with the murder of Police Constable Peniasi Racagi earlier this year.
Meanwhile, the Fiji Police Force says investigations into the death of Police Constable Peniasi Racagi are ongoing, despite murder charges against two accused men being withdrawn in court today.
In a statement, police said inquiries were continuing in two areas, including the circumstances surrounding the officer’s death and alleged police involvement.
Police said further comment would be made once the case file was returned from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
“The Fiji Police Force will make comments once the file is returned from ODPP. Due process was followed on the sanctioning and laying of charges with ODPP,” a statement read.
They also stressed that due process was followed when charges were laid and that the withdrawal of charges was a decision made by the ODPP….PACNEWS
USA – DIPLOMACY: AFR PACNEWS 3: Fri 22 May 2026
Australia gives U.S ‘edge’ against China, says Trump’s pick for Canberra
WASHINTON, 22 MAY 2026 (AFR)—Donald Trump’s pick to lead diplomatic efforts in Canberra says having a strong relationship with Australia gives the U.S an edge over China in the Indo-Pacific and is crucial to its attempts to break Beijing’s stranglehold on critical minerals processing.
David Brat told senators on Wednesday (Thursday AEST) that if confirmed in the role, his three priorities would be critical minerals, defence co-operation and partnership in the Indo-Pacific “amidst China’s unprecedented military build-up”.
“The U.S-Australia alliance is an essential pillar of regional stability and deterrence,” he said, noting in particular the need for the US and Australia to work together on critical infrastructure investments in the Pacific Islands.
“We can bolster the resilience of our regional partners to help to fight against the malign influence of our adversaries,” he said. “The United States is a Pacific nation, and our partnership with Australia maintains our edge in this vast strategic region.”
Brat, facing the Senate after Trump took more than 15 months to nominate an ambassador to Australia, revealed an appetite for some sports diplomacy, too.
“I’m a tennis fanatic; I follow your pros, the Open, and of course, the game of Prime Minister [Anthony] Albanese,” he said. “I love the Australian people I have met in life, and I appreciate their decency, their wit, their sense of humour.”
His remarks highlight the ongoing tension between Australia’s security alliance with the U.S and its economic reliance on Beijing as a top commodities buyer, but they also reflect the more candid and hawkish .US view of China in Washington.
Although Trump’s attempts to stabilise the relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping have muddied that view somewhat, there is still a bipartisan determination in Congress to counter China’s clout in the region.
The U.S president even hinted he’d reconsider proposed arms sales to autonomously governed Taiwan after a visit to Beijing seeking help on the Iran impasse and concessions for U.S exporters.
Brat, a former economics professor, faced few difficult questions during his confirmation hearing in front of the powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and should have a smooth path to confirmation as Ambassador to Australia following a Senate vote.
The former Republican House member was part of the Tea Party wave elected to Congress in 2014, and served two terms pushing free-market economics and conservative ideals as part of the so-called Freedom Caucus.
He is seen as a loyal servant of Trump. This, along with his fast-tracked path through the confirmation process, suggests the U.S is prioritising Australia after a busy return to the White House that put a strain on the relationship through tariffs, demands on defence spending and presidential rebukes over the Iran war.
Democrat senators latched onto the delay in naming an ambassador and the Pentagon’s now-concluded review of the AUKUS submarine pact as evidence that the Trump administration had damaged the long-standing friendship.
“The administration’s prolonged review of AUKUS has created uncertainty that I think has merely been unnecessary at a critical time in the region,” said Jeanne Shaheen, the senior Democrat on the committee.
“It took more than a year for the administration to nominate someone to this post, and I’m glad that they finally have. I’m delighted because it’s delays like this that weaken American credibility with our allies.”
Senator Jim Risch, the Republican chairman of the committee, used his opening remarks to urge Brat to help the Albanese government “counter the rise of antisemitism that we’ve seen in Australia”.
“If confirmed, you will oversee a historic transformation of our alliance with Australia as we step up our diplomatic, economic, and security cooperation through AUKUS and other initiatives,” Risch said.
“I hope you will also push our friends to fully implement their new investment screening and foreign influence laws to counter malign Chinese influence,” he said.
Brat acknowledged the clear bipartisan congressional support for AUKUS and for critical minerals co-operation, amid impatience with implementation delays in both.
He echoed Trump’s call for the United States to be “full steam ahead” on the submarine pact and new areas of high-tech co-operation under the so-called “pillar two” of the agreement.
Brat also warned of China’s dominance in the processing of 90 percent of the world’s critical minerals, which he said were “vital to every aspect of the economy”.
“I’m going to work on that, [it] will probably be one of my main priorities working with the mission and the embassy,” he said.
Kevin Rudd had a high profile and an awkward history with Donald Trump. Greg Moriarty will bring a quiet steadiness to the Ambassador role….PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
VAN – FISHERIES: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 22 May 2026
World Bank commits nearly VT3 billion to strengthen Fisheries Ministry
PORT VILA, 22 MAY 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST)—Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat has confirmed that the World Bank has agreed to provide funding of nearly VT3 billion(US$25,259,757) to strengthen Vanuatu’s fisheries sector, as the Government pushes ahead with major reforms aimed at maximising benefits from the country’s vast ocean resources.
Speaking during the First Ordinary Session of Parliament 2026, the PM said the funding would support the newly established Ministry of Fisheries, Oceans and Maritime Affairs, a ministry created for the first time under the current Government.
He said Vanuatu has more than 90 percent ocean compared to its land mass, yet many marine resources remain underdeveloped or poorly managed.
“The Government is introducing reforms to address this area,” the PM told Parliament, pointing to years of mismanagement in the fisheries sector and the need for stronger governance and accountability.
He highlighted recent progress in the fishing industry, particularly the Jack Mackerel fishery, where Government revenue has increased significantly.
“Last year we have seen for the first time the Jack Mackerel, which we never got a benefit out of. Our Government finally lifted the revenue from VT500 million (US$4,206,127) to almost VT1 billion(US$8,411,960),” PM Napat sai
He also praised tighter regulation in the shipping industry and acknowledged former Minister of Infrastructure and Public Utilities Jay Ngwele for his role in strengthening oversight and improving revenue collection.
The PM said the new World Bank support would assist the Government in rolling out fisheries development plans, including proposals for a cannery and a review of existing agreements with Sino-Van Fisheries Limited.
According to the PM, Sino-Van still owes outstanding payments to the Government, and the Council of Ministers will consider legal options regarding the agreement signed several years ago.
“If it needs to be cancelled, we will cancel so that Vanuatu will obtain the maximum benefit,” he said.
PM Napat added that the World Bank funding would help the Government address governance issues and strengthen the fisheries sector to ensure greater national returns from marine resources.
The announcement comes after the PM returned from Papua New Guinea, where Melanesian leaders met during the Melanesian Ocean Summit.
During the summit, leaders signed an agreement to protect around 7,000 square kilometres of ocean territory in TORBA Province amid concerns over declining tuna stocks in the region.
PM Napat clarified that local fishermen would still be allowed to fish in the protected area, but international fishing vessels would face restrictions as the area becomes a marine reserve.
“Science has proved and stated that we are experiencing a decline in tuna stocks,” he said, adding that the decision was approved by the Council of Ministers to safeguard Vanuatu’s marine resources for future generations….PACNEWS
VAN – AIRLINE: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 22 May 2026
Vanuatu PM assures Parliament Air Vanuatu recovery on track
PORT VILA, 22 MAY 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST)—Vanuatu Prime MinisterJotham Napat has assured Parliament that the rebuilding of the national carrier Air Vanuatu is progressing, as the Government moves to restore confidence in Vanuatu’s aviation sector following the airline’s collapse into liquidation earlier this year.
Responding to President Nikenike Vurobaravu’s official address during the opening of the First Ordinary Session of Parliament 2026, PM Napat acknowledged that aviation remains a strategic national priority beyond commercial interests.
“We are rebuilding our national airline. Air Vanuatu’s rebuilding is under way,” the PM told Parliament.
“The Open Sky policy has lifted connectivity. But we agree—aviation is strategic. It is national unity, health access, and trade in the sky.”
He said the Government is determined to ensure the future governance of the airline reflects long-term national interests rather than short-term commercial gains.
“My government will ensure its governance reflects long-term national interest, not short-term commercial gain,” he said.
The PM’s comments come after months of uncertainty surrounding Air Vanuatu, which entered liquidation in 2024 amid mounting debts, grounded aircraft, and management failures that disrupted both domestic and international services.
The airline’s collapse left thousands of passengers stranded and dealt a major blow to the tourism sector, which heavily depends on reliable air connectivity.
Since then, the Government has introduced reforms under its Open Sky policy, allowing foreign carriers to expand routes into Vanuatu while authorities work on rebuilding domestic and international connectivity.
Napat said the return of stability in Government has been critical in restoring investor confidence and enabling aviation recovery efforts.
‘After the collapse of Air Vanuatu through liquidation, stability has allowed us to take decisive steps toward restoring international and domestic connectivity,” he said.
‘Without a stable government, no investor or partner would commit to the long, complex task of rebuilding an airline that our people and economy depend on.’
The PM did not outline a timeline for the full restoration of Air Vanuatu, but his remarks suggest the Government is pursuing a longer-term restructuring strategy rather than a quick commercial fix.
Aviation remains politically sensitive in Vanuatu, particularly for outer islands where domestic flights are essential for medical referrals, movement of goods, and public services.
President Vurobaravu had earlier stressed the importance of restoring aviation reliability as part of national development priorities.
The Government is expected to provide further updates on the airline’s restructuring plans, governance arrangements, and potential investment partnerships in coming months as public pressure continues for the return of a reliable national carrier……PACNEWS
FIJI – FUEL SUBSIDY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS BIZ: Fri 22 May 2026
Fiji Minibus operators disappointed over exclusion from fuel support
SUVA, 22 MAY 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Minibus operators have raised disappointment over being excluded from Government assistance measures announced during the ongoing fuel crisis, despite facing the same rising fuel and operational costs as bus operators.
In a statement Vitiminibus Cooperative Limited acknowledged Government’s intervention to subsidise the 22.5 percent bus fare increase and the additional support measures announced for Energy Fiji Limited customers, students, social welfare recipients, rural service licence providers and boat operators.
However, the cooperative questioned why minibus operators had “once again been completely excluded” from Government support.
“This selective approach is deeply unfair,” the statement said.
The cooperative said minibus operators remained an essential part of Fiji’s transport system, serving workers, schoolchildren, market vendors, the elderly and communities across urban, rural and remote areas.
“We continue to serve areas where buses are unavailable, overloaded, or operating on limited schedules.”
It said while bus operators were receiving Government-funded subsidies worth millions of dollars each month, minibus operators were being forced to absorb the full impact of rising fuel prices, spare parts, tyres, maintenance, insurance and operational costs.
“Why are minibus operators being ignored during a national fuel crisis?
“Why is one section of the transport industry being protected while another is left struggling for survival?”
Vitiminibus Cooperative Limited said many operators were already facing severe financial hardship and struggling to meet loan repayments, maintenance expenses, licensing fees and family obligations.
“The continued exclusion of our sector threatens livelihoods and places many operators at risk of financial collapse.”
The cooperative said if Government could justify subsidies to maintain bus services, then fairness and equality demanded similar support for minibus operators.
Vitiminibus Cooperative Limited is now calling on Government to extend fuel assistance or transport subsidies to minibus operators, engage directly with public service vehicle stakeholders before implementing future transport decisions, and recognise minibuses as essential transport providers deserving equal support and policy consideration.
“We fully support measures that help ordinary Fijians during difficult economic times. However, no transport sector should be neglected or treated as less important.
“The survival of minibus operators is equally important to the continuity of Fiji’s transport services,” the statement said…PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
War is becoming a death sentence for women and girls
NEW YORK, 22 MAY 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE) —Thirteen-year-old Mona still remembers the moment the second airstrike hit.
“We were sitting on the sixth floor when they struck the seventh – my uncle’s apartment,” she said. “My uncle’s wife was screaming, ‘My children! My children are gone!’ As I rushed to help her, they fired the second shell. That’s when my mother and my siblings were killed.”
Mona survived the attack in Gaza, but her mother, sister and brother did not. The airstrike destroyed her family home and left her with life-changing injuries, including an amputated leg.
Her story reflects a growing reality for millions of women and girls trapped in today’s wars.
As the UN marks Protection of Civilians Week, the number of active conflicts across the world at its highest since 1946. Conflicts are becoming longer, more violent and increasingly fought in populated neighbourhoods rather than distant battlefields.
Homes, schools, hospitals and shelters are being destroyed, while civilians bear the burden of the violence.
Women as victims
While bombs do not distinguish between men and women, the consequences of war often fall disproportionately on women and girls.
The UN reported that 37,000 civilians were killed across 20 armed conflicts in 2025, with nearly one in five victims being women.
Women and girls are more likely to be displaced, pushed out of school or work, cut off from healthcare and exposed to sexual violence, hunger and extreme poverty.
As communities collapse around them, many are left caring for children, elderly relatives and the injured while trying to survive themselves.
In Gaza, 38,000 women and girls had been killed in the war by December 2025, even as ceasefire efforts continued. Residential buildings accounted for more than 95 percent of recorded infrastructure damage.
Surge of sexual violence
The UN verified more than 9,300 cases of conflict-related sexual violence in 2025, more than double the number recorded the previous year, though officials warn the true number is likely far higher because many survivors never report the abuse. Women and girls account for more than 95 percent of reported cases.
In Sudan, now in its fourth year of war, the number of women and girls needing support after gender-based violence has nearly doubled in two years and quadrupled since the conflict began.
Women are being attacked in their homes and while searching for food, water and medical care.
Conflict is also driving mass displacement. By the end of 2024, more than 123 million people had been forcibly displaced worldwide because of war, violence and persecution.
Women and girls fleeing conflict often face overcrowded shelters, separation from family members, exploitation and repeated displacement.
Healthcare systems collapsing
In Gaza, the UN reported that 94 percent of hospitals had been damaged or destroyed by December 2025, leaving women to give birth without adequate medical care and injured civilians struggling to access treatment.
Nearly 700,000 women and girls were unable to properly manage menstruation due to shortages of sanitary supplies and unsafe living conditions.
The psychological toll is also immense. Women in countries including Afghanistan, Ukraine, Gaza and Lebanon are facing widespread depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder, often with little access to mental health services.
Call for inclusion
Despite carrying much of the burden of survival during war, women remain largely excluded from peace negotiations and political decision-making.
Globally, women make up only seven percent of negotiators and 14 percent of mediators in formal peace processes.
Yet women continue to lead survival and recovery efforts in conflict zones by running community kitchens, supporting displaced families, rebuilding livelihoods and advocating for peace.
The UN warns that without greater protection, funding and inclusion for women and girls, modern warfare will continue to deepen inequality and devastate generations already struggling to survive….PACNEWS
