In this bulletin:
1. SOL — At least 10 feared dead in Gold Ridge Pit collapse in Solomon Islands
2. PACIFIC — More Pacific defence partnerships likely after PNG and NZ sign agreement, expert says
3. SOL — Signing the U.S shiprider agreement is selling our sovereignty: Sogavare
4. PACIFIC — SINU Vice Chancellor says Pacific leadership must balance idealism, pragmatism and experience
5. TONGA — Tongan journalists seek stronger protection amid growing Pacific drug threat
6. TAIWAN — Diplomatic allies’ youth training concludes
7. PACNEWS BIZ — France commits more recovery funding for New Caledonia as 50 new projects approved
8. PACNEWS BIZ — More Kiwibank savings options coming to Niue
9. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji strengthening regional digital leadership at Pacific ICT Ministerial Meeting
10. PACNEWS BIZ — BSP predicts moderate PNG growth as global risks persist
11. PACNEWS BIZ — Guam’s ASC Trust expands to Palau with employer-sponsored retirement Savings Plans
12. PACNEWS DIGEST — FAO presents new strategic model to tackle transboundary animal diseases
13. PACNEWS SPORT — Brad Mooar named Fijian Drua Men’s Head Coach for 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season
13. PACNEWS SPORT — PNG’s Morea Baru wins Pacific’s first medal at Commonwealth Games
SOL – MINING INCIDENT: INDEPTH SOLOMONS PACNEWS 3: Mon 27 Jul 2026
At least 10 feared dead in Gold Ridge Pit collapse in Solomon Islands
HONIARA, 27 JULY 2026 (INDEPTH SOLOMONS) —-Solomon Islands Police are now at the Gold Ridge mine site as reports emerge that at least 10 bodies have been recovered after a ground collapse buried people inside Pit 1 early today.
The incident occurred between 1am and 2am, an eyewitness told In-depth Solomons.
“As I speak, excavators are still clearing the area in search of others who may still be trapped beneath the collapsed earth,” the eyewitness, who asked not to be named, said.
Authorities have yet to confirm the number of casualties or release an official statement.
The victims are believed to be people searching for gold at the site and are not employees of Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML), which operates the mine.
Instead, they are believed to be informal or “illegal” miners who enter the mine pits to search for gold independently.
This is not the first fatal incident involving people searching for gold at the mine.
In August last year, two men were killed at Pit 3 after a large rock was reportedly dislodged during mining operations and rolled onto them.
The victims were also reported not to be employees of Gold Ridge Mining Limited. Police launched an investigation into the incident.
In November 2023, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force investigated the death of a 40-year-old man following an accident at Pit 1.
Police did not publicly disclose details of how the accident occurred.
In January this year, a major unrest broke out when more than 30 pieces of heavy machinery were burned during a landowner dispute, prompting a large police response.
Comments are being sought from the mine operator.
Gold Ridge Mine is operated by Gold Ridge Mining Limited, which holds the mining and exploration licences for the project on Guadalcanal.
The company is 70 percent owned by Wanguo International Mining Group of Hong Kong, 20 percent by Australia’s AXF Resources, and 10 percent by Gold Ridge Community Investment Limited (GCIL), which represents local landowners…. PACNEWS
PAC – DEFENCE: PMN PACNEWS 3: Mon 27 Jul 2026
More Pacific defence partnerships likely after PNG and NZ sign agreement, expert says
PORT MORESBY/WELLINGTON, 27 JULY 2026 (PMN) — The new defence agreement between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and New Zealand could lead to more joint training, maritime patrols and regional cooperation as Pacific countries respond to shared security challenges, according to international law expert Professor Al Gillespie.
The Statement of Intent on Defence Cooperation 2026-2029 was signed by Papua New Guinea Defence Minister Elias Kapavore and New Zealand Defence Minister Chris Penk in Port Moresby last Wednesday.
The deal focuses on strengthening cooperation in areas including maritime surveillance, disaster response, search and rescue, explosive ordnance disposal, officer training and personnel exchanges.
The PNG Government has stressed that the agreement is about strengthening the capability of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force while maintaining the country’s sovereignty and control over its own security decisions.
Speaking on Pacific Mornings, Gillespie said the three-year agreement is more than a commitment between two countries.
He believes it signals a wider shift as Pacific nations strengthen security cooperation while navigating a changing regional environment.
“I think it’s a step in the right direction,” Gillespie said. “I think it’s great to be working with PNG. Their soldiers are of a high quality and it will deepen the relationship between the countries.”
Gillespie said maritime security is a key focus because Pacific countries face a range of shared challenges across their vast ocean territories.
“Maritime security covers a lot of things,” he said. “It’s not just the threat of other countries. It’s also the threat of illegal drugs and illegal fishing. And so, there’s a lot of aspects that you have to be concerned about in the maritime domain.”
For Pacific countries, maritime security is closely linked to everyday issues such as protecting fisheries, responding to disasters and supporting communities in remote islands.
He said New Zealand, Australia and the United States all have expertise that can help Pacific countries respond to those challenges.
Gillespie believes the PNG agreement is part of a broader regional trend that is already emerging.
‘It’s not just with PNG in Australia and New Zealand. It’s also with Fiji, and you’re going to see it move more throughout the region, I think, in years to come and months to come”
Rather than creating formal military alliances, he said many of these agreements are designed to improve how countries work together during emergencies and security operations.
“What you’re seeing is much greater linkages between like-minded countries. And so, you’re seeing a much wider web of defence arrangements linking together.”
He expects Pacific countries will see more practical cooperation as those relationships develop.
“I think you’re likely to see more, and what it means is that you’re likely to see more training together. So, you’ll see officers from, for example, PNG coming to train them.
“You’ll see more operations and joint surveillance around the region, more utilisation of new technologies such as underwater systems and drone systems.”
Gillespie said the growing partnerships are also likely to extend beyond military cooperation into civilian agencies, including policing.
“And that will overlap also not just in terms of military support, but also civilian support as well, like with policing.”
The agreement comes as New Zealand continues to emphasise closer engagement with regional partners amid growing security and economic uncertainty.
Speaking at regional meetings in Manila last week, New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said cooperation with partners was increasingly important as countries respond to a changing global environment.
“People all around the world are doing it tough, and our region is facing major security and economic impacts from the currently turbulent global environment,” Peters said.
Asked how China might view the growing number of defence agreements in the Pacific, Gillespie said the trend was unlikely to be welcomed by Beijing.
But he said there should still be room for cooperation on broader regional issues.
“We should try to cooperate as much as we can with non-traditional partners, and we shouldn’t be in conflict, especially over the development and sustainable development of the Pacific.
“But when it comes to security, countries tend to work with more countries which are historically aligned and share the same values.”
China has also highlighted its growing relationship with Papua New Guinea, with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi saying Beijing supports PNG playing a greater role in international affairs.
During talks with PNG Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko in Manila, Wang said China was willing to deepen cooperation with PNG in areas including trade, infrastructure, health and other areas of development.
He also welcomed PNG’s decision to close its Taipei Economic Office, describing it as a sign of closer ties between the two countries.
PNG Prime Minister James Marape has said defence partnerships with traditional partners are made under sovereign decisions and that Papua New Guinea retains full control of its military.
His comments reflect PNG’s repeated position that security partnerships are about strengthening national capability while keeping decision-making in PNG hands.
“Each nation remains fully sovereign. The Papua New Guinea Defence Force answers only to the Government and Commander of Papua New Guinea… This does not diminish our sovereignty in any way,” Marape said.
For Gillespie, the agreement is unlikely to be the last of its kind.
As Pacific countries face growing security challenges, he expects more defence partnerships to emerge across the region, bringing closer cooperation both at sea and on land…. PACNEWS
SOL – POLITICS: SOLOMONS OPPOSITION PACNEWS 3: Mon 27 Jul 2026
Signing the U.S shiprider agreement is selling our sovereignty: Sogavare
HONIARA, 27 JULY 2026 (SOLOMONS OPPOSITION — Solomon Islands leader of the Opposition, Manasseh Sogavare, has warned that the ruling government’s plan to sign a shiprider agreement with the United States amounts to surrendering Solomon Islands’ sovereign control over its own waters and has called on the Government to release the full text and table it in Parliament before taking any further step toward signature.
“This Government wants Solomon Islanders to believe this is simply a security partnership,” Sogavare said.
“It is not. Read closely. Agreements of this kind hand a foreign navy standing legal authority to act in our waters in exchange for a theoretical right Solomon Islands could never realistically exercise. That is not a partnership between sovereign equals. That is our sovereignty being sold, one clause at a time.”
Solomon Islands is the last of the region’s long-standing holdouts on this agreement.
Twelve Pacific Island countries—Cook Islands, Fiji, the Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu—have already signed a shiprider agreement with the United States.
Of those twelve, three—the Federated States of Micronesia, Palau and Samoa—have since been upgraded to an “enhanced” or “remote-authorisation” model, allowing U.S Coast Guard vessels to board and enforce on the host nation’s behalf even when no local officer is on board.
History across the Pacific shows these agreements rarely remain in their original, more limited form. That is why the terms Solomon Islands agrees to today will shape our sovereignty for years to come.
Every version of this agreement signed elsewhere in the Pacific follows the same American template. In the near-identical text Vanuatu signed in 2016, United States vessels may act unilaterally, boarding, searching and pursuing suspect vessels in Vanuatu’s waters whenever a local shiprider is simply “not available”, a threshold the host country does not control. In exchange, Vanuatu received only a mirror-image right to do the same in United States waters, a right no Pacific island maritime service the size of Solomon Islands could realistically exercise.
If Solomon Islands signs the same template, it should expect no different. Regional commentators have already identified this same imbalance in other Pacific agreements. That is not reciprocity. It is a one-way transfer of authority dressed up as an equal partnership.
The Wale Government will argue that the agreement is needed to combat drug traffickers, narco-submarines and illegal fishing. Those are genuine threats, and Solomon Islands have every right to seek assistance in addressing them. But genuine security concerns cannot justify granting standing enforcement powers in our territorial waters without full public scrutiny. The question is not whether we need help, but what legal authority we are being asked to surrender in return.
Other small states facing the same proposal negotiated stronger safeguards. Jamaica and Barbados both pushed back on the same American template and secured consent-based provisions requiring telephonic or written permission before any boarding operation rather than accepting automatic entry.
Stephen Vasciannie, a Jamaican legal commentator, has publicly advanced the same sovereignty concerns. If Caribbean nations a fraction of our size could hold the line on their own waters, Solomon Islands can too. The Wale Government has not explained why it did not even try.
This is consistent with the position maintained by both the DCGA and GNUT Governments throughout their time in office: agreements affecting the sovereignty and security of our nation must be shaped on Solomon Islands’ terms, tested against regional frameworks and subjected to parliamentary scrutiny and not rushed through to satisfy a foreign timetable.
The Opposition has received information that, despite the Prime Minister’s announcement that the shiprider agreement will be signed in Honiara, no decision to enter into the agreement has in fact been made by the Government Caucus or Cabinet.
If those reports are correct, the process raises equally serious questions about the Government’s own decision-making.
Sogavare questioned why Prime Minister Matthew Wale would make such a significant commitment without first obtaining the endorsement of either Cabinet or Government Caucus.
“The Prime Minister has, since taking office, demonstrated a pattern of unilateral decision-making even though he knows he leads a coalition of six political parties. This is nothing short of dictatorial leadership,” Sogavare said.
“The Prime Minister must clarify why he bypassed the Cabinet. Ministers must be given the opportunity to scrutinise and deliberate on an agreement that has serious implications for Solomon Islands’ sovereignty before any commitment is made,” he said…. PACNEWS
PAC – LEADERSHIP PACNEWS PACNEWS 3: Mon 27 Jul 2026
SINU Vice Chancellor says Pacific leadership must balance idealism, pragmatism and experience
HONIARA, 27 JULY 2026 (PACNEWS) — Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Vice Chancellor Dr Transform Aqorau says effective leadership requires balancing the idealism of youth, the pragmatism of leadership and the wisdom gained through experience.
In a social media post titled “The Idealism of Youth, the Pragmatism of Leadership, and the Wisdom of Experience: Reflections from a Pacific Journey,” Dr Aqorau reflected on lessons from his career in public service and leadership.
“When I first entered the workforce in my early twenties, I believed that good ideas, hard work and determination were enough to change the world,” he said.
Dr Aqorau said idealism was one of his greatest strengths because it fostered a belief that Solomon Islands and the Pacific could build “a more prosperous, just and sustainable future.”
“Idealism is the engine of progress. Every generation needs young people who question accepted wisdom, challenge outdated practices and imagine a better future.”
Dr Aqorau said experience had taught him that leadership is rarely about choosing between good and bad options.
“More often, it is about choosing between competing priorities, each of which has merit. Decisions must be made within the constraints of limited budgets, limited institutional capacity, competing stakeholder interests, and political realities.
“This is where pragmatism becomes essential,” he said.
He said governments and public institutions operate with limited resources despite growing demands.
“One lesson has remained with me throughout my career: our countries possess unlimited needs but only limited resources.”
He described this as “the defining challenge of development in Solomon Islands and across the Pacific.”
“Leadership therefore becomes an exercise in prioritisation.”
Dr Aqorau said leaders must decide which investments deliver the greatest long-term benefits, strengthen national capability and make the best use of limited public resources.
He also said development is about more than infrastructure.
“Development is fundamentally about building institutions and people rather than simply constructing infrastructure.”
Dr Aqorau said roads, ports, airports and buildings would not reach their full potential without capable institutions, ethical leadership, skilled professionals and accountable governance.
Drawing on his experience as a lawyer, adviser, academic, international negotiator and now Vice Chancellor, Dr Aqorau said leadership requires balancing three perspectives.
“First, never lose the idealism of youth.”
“Second, embrace the pragmatism of leadership.”
“Third, value the wisdom that comes through experience,” he said.
He said these lessons are particularly relevant for Solomon Islands and the wider Pacific.
“Our future will not be secured simply by copying the development models of larger economies. Nor will it be achieved by pursuing every opportunity simultaneously.”
“Rather, our success will depend upon making wise choices, investing strategically in our people and institutions, and remaining grounded in our own cultures, histories and values,” he said.
Dr Aqorau said the Pacific has the talent, ideas and resilience needed for development.
“What we must continue to develop is the collective discipline to align our limited resources with our highest priorities.”
Reflecting on his own journey, he said his views on change had evolved but his optimism had not.
“Real progress lies not in abandoning our ideals, but in tempering them with practical leadership and the wisdom that only experience can provide.”
He said that leadership is about combining vision with practical action.
“Dream boldly, lead wisely, and never forget that while our resources may be limited, the possibilities created by good leadership, capable institutions and committed people are almost limitless” Dr Aqorau said…. PACNEWS
TONGA – MEDIA: TALANOAOTONGA PACNEWS 3: Mon 27 Jul 2026
Tongan journalists seek stronger protection amid growing Pacific drug threat
NUKU’ALOFA, 27 JULY 202(TALANOAOTONGA) — Tongan journalists are calling for greater protection and support as the expansion of the illicit drug trade across the Pacific creates new risks for media workers investigating organised crime and public safety issues.
Concerns were raised during a Media Association of Tonga (MAT) Press Club discussion focused on “Drugs, Security and Reporting”, where journalists, law enforcement officials and regional partners discussed the challenges of covering a growing security issue while ensuring reporter safety.
The discussion followed an incident involving a journalist who encountered an armed individual while investigating suspected drug-related activity.
Media representatives said the incident highlighted the increasingly difficult environment faced by journalists who report on sensitive issues involving criminal networks, corruption and community harm.
Teisa Pohiva Cokanasiga, manager of Kele’a Voice, said the situation demonstrated the importance of protecting journalists who carry out public interest reporting.
She noted that many Pacific newsrooms operate with limited financial and technical resources, making it challenging to provide security training, legal support and other protections for reporters working on high-risk stories.
Regional law enforcement officials told the forum that drug trafficking has become a growing concern across the Pacific, with criminal networks exploiting the region’s geography and maritime routes.
The Australian Federal Police said 17 tonnes of illicit drugs had been seized across the Pacific since January 2026, compared with 4.6 tonnes seized during the whole of 2025, indicating a significant increase in trafficking activity.
Tonga Police Commissioner Geoff Turner said authorities were strengthening cooperation with regional partners, improving intelligence capabilities and enhancing measures to disrupt organised crime operations, including the seizure of assets linked to illegal activities.
The rise in drug trafficking has become a wider Pacific security concern, with governments across the region calling for stronger cooperation and information sharing. Tonga’s leaders have also highlighted the need for Pacific-led solutions to address the social and security impacts of the drug trade.
Media leaders said journalists must continue to play a role in informing communities about these issues but stressed that stronger protections and regional support are needed to ensure reporters can work safely…. PACNEWS
TAIWAN – DIPLOMACY: TAIWAN TODAY PACNEWS 3: Mon 27 Jul 2026
Diplomatic allies’ youth training concludes
TAIPEI, 27 JULY 2026 (TAIWAN TODAY) — Taiwan deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs François Chih-chung Wu attended the closing ceremony of a one-month training programme for youth from diplomatic allies in Taipei City, anticipating that the participants would return home to promote development in their own countries.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the first session of the “2026 Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative—Diplomatic Allies Inbound Track Programme” drew 22 trainees from allies Eswatini, the Marshall Islands and Tuvalu.
Ambassadors Anjanette Kattil and Lily Tangisia Faavae from the Marshall Islands and Tuvalu, respectively, also attended the ceremony, the ministry said.
This year marked the second edition of the programme and demonstrates the importance Taiwan attaches to its allies and their youth, Wu said.
The MOFA cooperates with the International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF) to offer the event which covers professional training, cultural exchange, and personnel development. The training empowers allies’ youth to further develop and advance partnerships with Taiwan upon their return, he added.
The deputy minister stated that this year’s programme focused on smart practices in two important sectors, agriculture and medicine. Smart agricultural practices such as using artificial intelligence applications, innovations and sustainable development were covered; while medical care encompassed enhancing healthcare quality through the use of AI, digital health and medical technology.
Taiwan’s experience in these sectors was offered through specialised courses, visits to enterprises and institutions and cross-cultural exchange activities, he added.
The programme launched after President Lai Ching-te’s 2024 visit to the Marshall Islands, during which he proposed local youth training and exchange to President Hilda Heine, the MOFA said.
The youth training forms one part of the integrated diplomacy initiative and Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project that seeks to deepen partnerships with next generation allies, it added…. PACNEWS
NEW|CALE – RECOVERY FUNDING: PACNEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 27 Jul 2026
France commits more recovery funding for New Caledonia as 50 new projects approved
NOUMEA, 27 JULY 2026 (PACNEWS) — France has approved a second phase of its investment-driven recovery plan for New Caledonia, committing an additional €84.7 million (CFP10.1 billion) to fund 50 infrastructure and development projects aimed at rebuilding the territory’s economy, creating jobs and improving essential services.
The funding forms part of the first operational stage of the Economic and Social Reconstruction Pact for New Caledonia, unveiled in March by the High Commissioner of the Republic and the inter-ministerial mission for New Caledonia.
The latest allocation follows Phase 1, which financed 54 projects with grants totalling just over €57 million (CFP6.8 billion).
Together, the two phases have committed nearly CFP17 billion (US$162.1 million) in French government funding since the beginning of 2026.
The second phase follows a call for proposals issued to local authorities in April, with 50 projects selected after assessment by the High Commissioner.
The projects focus on four key investment priorities.
The largest share of funding will improve access to remote communities through 22 projects worth about CFP4 billion. Seventeen of these projects involve transport infrastructure, including road rehabilitation, bridge construction and upgrades to access roads serving isolated areas.
The recovery programme also allocates around CFP3.3 billion (US$31.5 million) to 18 projects aimed at improving access to essential services, particularly drinking water supplies, water distribution and sanitation networks, and other community infrastructure.
Two projects valued at approximately CFP200 million (US$1,908,351) will strengthen New Caledonia’s resilience to climate change and natural disasters.
Another eight projects, worth around CFP2.5 billion (US$23.8 million), will support economic diversification, with particular emphasis on developing the tourism sector and creating new economic opportunities.
French authorities said the recovery programme is designed not only to improve infrastructure but also to accelerate economic activity by supporting local businesses, particularly those in the construction and public works sectors, while generating employment across the territory.
The French Government has informed local authorities of the funding allocations and has urged project owners to begin work as soon as possible, and no later than the end of 2026, to ensure the recovery plan delivers its intended outcomes.
Government-appointed representatives will continue to assist project developers to help projects commence without delay.
The broader recovery programme includes €200 million (CFP24 billion) in French state subsidies over five years to support major infrastructure investments across New Caledonia…. PACNEWS
NIUE – BANK: NIUE GOVT PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 27 Jul 2026
More Kiwibank savings options coming to Niue
ALOFI, 27 JULY 2026 (NIUE GOVT) — The Government of Niue, Kiwibank and the Niue Development Bank have signed an agreement that will bring new savings products to the people of Niue.
The agreement was signed on Thursday, 23 July 2026
Under the updated agreement, eligible Kiwibank customers in Niue will soon be able to access Kiwibank Term Deposits and Notice Saver Accounts. These new products will give people more choices for saving and growing their money.
Until now, these savings products have not been available to on island Niue customers of Kiwibank. The agreement updates the long-standing partnership between Kiwibank and the Government of Niue, allowing the Niue Development Bank to make these products available locally via the Kiwibank agency branch.
The new options will help individuals and families save for future goals, education, emergencies, retirement, and other important life events while earning returns on their savings.
This is an important step towards giving Niue residents access to the same banking services available to customers in New Zealand.
The agreement reflects several years of collaboration and demonstrates the shared commitment of all parties to improving banking services and financial opportunities for the people of Niue.
The Government of Niue acknowledges the efforts of Kiwibank and the Niue Development Bank, and extends special thanks to Matariki Mitchell, Head of Operations – Local for Kiwibank, and the Kiwibank team for their dedication in helping bring this initiative to completion.
Chief Executive Officer of the Niue Development Bank, Jesse Koorey-Slow welcomed the agreement as a positive step for Niue’s financial future:
“Today’s signing is about giving the people of Niue more choice and more opportunities to save for the future. It is a positive step that strengthens financial wellbeing and supports the long-term prosperity of our people,” Koorey-Slow said…. PACNEWS
PAC – ICT MEET: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 27 Jul 2026
Fiji strengthening regional digital leadership at Pacific ICT Ministerial Meeting
PORT MORESBY, 27 JULY 2026 (FIJI GOVT) — Fiji has reaffirmed its commitment to shaping a safe, inclusive, and digitally connected Pacific following the Pacific ICT Ministers Meeting in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.
Minister for Policing and Communications, Ioane Naivalurua, led Fiji’s delegation to the regional meeting, where ICT Ministers from across the Pacific agreed on key priorities to strengthen digital cooperation and accelerate the region’s digital future.
A major outcome of the meeting was the endorsement of the Digital Technologies and AI Principles for the Pacific.
The principles will guide the responsible development and use of emerging technologies by promoting safety, ethical governance, and Pacific values while supporting innovation and economic growth.
Pacific Ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to working together to address the growing challenges associated with social media and to accelerate the implementation of the Pacific Islands Digital Transformation Action Plan. These collective efforts aim to strengthen cybersecurity, improve digital resilience, and build future ready Pacific economies.
On the margins of the meeting, Minister Naivalurua held a series of strategic engagements to strengthen Fiji’s regional partnerships and advance national digital priorities.
During a courtesy call on the Australian Special Envoy to the Pacific at the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby, discussions focused on expanding digital cooperation under the Vuvale Treaty.
The meeting explored opportunities to strengthen telecommunications resilience, improve cyber safety, and support digital skills development across the region.
The Minister also met with the Deputy Secretary General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), where he conveyed Fiji’s appreciation for the organisation’s continued technical support. He also reaffirmed Fiji’s interest in hosting the ITU Pacific Area Office, reinforcing the country’s ambition to become a regional centre for telecommunications policy, innovation, and technical cooperation.
Minister Naivalurua also visited the Fiji High Commission in Port Moresby, where he received a briefing on Fiji’s diplomatic engagement with Papua New Guinea, ongoing priorities, and future areas of cooperation between the two countries.
Reflecting Fiji’s strong commitment to its citizens abroad, the Minister met with members of the Fijian community living and working in Papua New Guinea during a Talanoa session. The discussion provided an opportunity to hear directly from the diaspora and strengthen their connection with home.
The Minister also visited Vodafone PNG and commended the leadership of the Fijian management team for driving investment and expanding telecommunications infrastructure in Papua New Guinea through the partnership of ATH, FNPF, and Vodafone Fiji.
Fiji’s participation extended well beyond the ministerial discussions. The delegation, comprising senior government officials and technical experts from the Ministry of Policing and Communications, actively contributed to technical sessions, policy dialogues, and regional working groups, reaffirming Fiji’s leadership in advancing digital transformation across the Pacific.
The outcomes of the meeting reinforce Fiji’s commitment to working alongside Pacific partners to build a secure, resilient, and inclusive digital future that delivers practical benefits for communities across the region…. PACNEWS
PNG – ECONOMY: THE PNG BULLETIN PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 27 Jul 2026
BSP predicts moderate PNG growth as global risks persist
PORT MORESBY, 27 JULY 2026 (THE PNG BULLETIN) — The Bank South Pacific (BSP) says Papua New Guinea’s economy remained resilient during the June quarter of 2026, despite growing global uncertainties, and is expected to continue growing at a moderate pace in the months ahead.
The bank made the assessment in its June Quarter 2026 Economic and Market Pulse which provides an overview of economic conditions in Papua New Guinea and across the South Pacific.
In the report, BSP Group Chief Executive Officer Mark Robinson said the global economy was entering a period of slower growth as the conflict in the Middle East continued to put pressure on energy prices and increase uncertainty for businesses and investors.
Despite these challenges, Robinson said Papua New Guinea had managed to maintain steady economic performance during the June quarter.
He said government measures to stabilise fuel prices had helped cushion the country from rising global energy costs, while high international prices for major exports, including liquefied natural gas (LNG), gold and copper, continued to support the economy.
Robinson also said stable foreign exchange conditions and a strong agricultural sector had contributed to the country’s economic resilience.
However, he warned that the possible return of El Niño could disrupt agricultural production and exports, while also pushing up food prices.
“Despite these challenges, we remain cautiously optimistic about PNG’s economic outlook in the third quarter, with positive sentiment surrounding the proposed US$12 billion Papua LNG project,” Robinson said.
BSP expects the country’s economy to continue expanding during the third quarter, although at a slower pace as global and domestic pressures affect demand and inflation.
The report also notes that while economies across the South Pacific have remained resilient, higher energy prices, weaker global demand, tighter financial conditions and climate-related risks are expected to slow economic activity and reduce tourist arrivals throughout the region.
The June Quarter 2026 Economic and Market Pulse also includes an analysis of Papua New Guinea’s foreign exchange market and the performance of the kina by BSP Group General Manager for Treasury and Markets, Rohan George, together with a detailed economic review by BSP Chief Economist Andrew Wu…. PACNEWS
PALAU – RETIREMENT SAVING PLAN: ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 27 Jul 2026
Guam’s ASC Trust expands to Palau with employer-sponsored retirement Savings Plans
KOROR,27 JULY 2026 (ISLAND TIMES) — ASC Trust, a Guam-based retirement plan management company, officially opened its Palau office last Thursday, expanding access to employer-sponsored retirement savings plans for businesses and organisations in the country.
ASC Trust specialises in retirement plan management throughout Micronesia, offering employer-sponsored retirement savings programs, including 401(k)-style plans. These defined-contribution plans allow employees to build retirement savings through regular payroll contributions, often with matching contributions from employers.
Several businesses and agencies in Palau have already enrolled with ASC Trust or offer similar employer-sponsored retirement savings programmes.
The Palau Conservation Society is among the organisations participating in the programme.
“Our employees are very happy with it. Some have increased their contributions,” said Elbuchel Sadang, executive director of the Palau Conservation Society.
Palau currently operates two primary public retirement systems. The Palau Social Security Administration provides retirement benefits for employees in both the public and private sectors, while the Palau Civil Service Pension Plan covers government employees.
Both public retirement systems operate under a defined-benefit model, in which retirement payments are determined by a formula rather than individual employee contributions. However, both systems face significant unfunded liabilities, raising concerns about their long-term financial sustainability and their ability to fully meet future retirement benefit obligations.
The opening of ASC Trust’s Palau office adds another retirement savings option for employers seeking defined-contribution plans that allow employees to build individual retirement accounts through workplace contributions…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
FAO presents new strategic model to tackle transboundary animal diseases
Proposed Global Partnership Programme responds to Members’ request for a broader, country-led platform
ROME, 27 JULY 2026 (FAO) — The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) presented a blueprint for a new global approach to tackle transboundary animal diseases.
Left unchecked, these diseases can rapidly undermine livelihoods and trade, hit low- and middle-income countries the hardest, and spill over into human populations with devastating consequences.
The FAO Global Partnership Programme for Transboundary Animal Diseases (GPP-TAD) is a country driven, country-led initiative, in which the prevention and control of prioritised diseases are strengthened through National Partnership Platforms that bring together governments, the private sector, producers, foundations, farmers’ organisations, and financial institutions under one national framework.
“We must ensure that the next chapter of global animal health is not defined by crisis, but by cooperation, responsibility and shared success” FAO Director-General QU Dongyu said at a high-level event attended by ministers and high-level government representatives.
He noted that transboundary animal diseases (TADs) remain one of the most urgent threats to global food security, livelihoods and health.
Cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza, foot-and-mouth disease, African swine fever, and New World screwworm, among others, demonstrate that TADs “are spreading faster, further, and with greater impact on economies and livelihoods than ever before,” Qu added.
The Director-General stressed that prevention costs far less than inaction, noting that the recent introduction of the SAT1 serotype of foot-and-mouth disease into Asia could lead to US$2 billion in annual losses, according to FAO’s impact assessment, and that investing upstream in prevention through a One Health approach is the only way to avert crises downstream.
“We can no longer speak only of zoonotic diseases. We need a right interpretation of a One Health holistic approach which encompasses soil health, animal health, plant health, human health and environmental health,” he added.
At the 44th Session of FAO Conference in July 2025, Members recognised the critical importance of preventing, detecting and responding to the spread of TADs and sent a strong message to ensure that FAO’s work is adequately resourced. Since, extensive consultations have been organised with Members, at regional conferences and at FAO headquarters, to bring forth a renewed model of financing, partnership, and solidarity to tackle high impact animal diseases. These are ongoing to gather feedback and refine the evolving plan.
Currently, 110 countries have submitted official letters to the FAO Director-General expressing their interest in joining the GPP-TAD, demonstrating a depth of political and financial commitment to a sustainable way of managing the most persistent and costly threats.
The High-Level event included statements from the agriculture ministers of Italy, Cameroon, Jordan, Mali, Mongolia, Nepal, Burkina Faso, Serbia, Kenya, Brazil, Indonesia, Kyrgyz Republic, Tonga, Solomon Islands, Egypt, and Papua New Guinea, underscoring strong global support for a more coordinated and sustainable responses to diseases that rapidly spread across borders.
A new way of working
The goal of GPP-TAD is to reinforce and sustain the critical capacity built over more than 20 years through FAO’s Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD). GPP-TAD brings forth a new way of funding and financing collective action on transboundary animal diseases, representing a fundamental paradigm shift in how FAO supports Members.
Previous efforts relied primarily on donor-funded projects, with FAO serving primarily as an implementing force. GPP-TAD introduces a new global governance architecture and a shift to diversified financing models. In the new architecture, the Director-General highlighted the transition away from a traditional project-by-project approach to an integrated platform conceived as a global public good, where countries lead implementation, with additional technical support from FAO calibrated to local needs and context. Regional hubs will coordinate cross-border action — the space where animal diseases cause their greatest damage and where no single country can act alone.
Through its EMPRES programme, FAO will continue to provide disease intelligence, early warning alerts, and normative guidance, and serve as a provider of last resort and surge assistance. National platforms are central, regional hubs coordinate technical assistance and promote collaboration, and FAO will host global coordination to support sustained prevention, preparedness, and collective action from the bottom up.
FAO will act as a global platform and facilitator, as well as a provider of normative guidance and support at global, regional, and national levels, and provide technical support to countries in establishing and operationalisng their own national plans.
GPP-TAD will work across five mutually reinforcing areas: prevention and progressive disease control; digital surveillance, early warning, and animal health innovation; preparedness and risk-informed early action and anticipatory action; coordinated and rapid emergency response; and legislation, partnerships and financing models.
A defining feature of the Programme is its financing model. The Programme introduces a diversified, solidarity-based model in which all participating countries will contribute according to their capacity, complemented by voluntary contributions from development partners, along with co-financing international financial institutions and the private sector.
At the global level, a Steering Committee will be established to provide strategic guidance, with participation and representation balanced across the world’s regions, and a technical advisory group, which will include key technical partners, including FAO’s Governing Bodies, will retain overall strategic oversight of the GPP-TAD.
GPP-TAD is “a strong global platform for solidarity, shared responsibility, and sustainable, predictable investment,” Qu said, and concluded by emphasising that “healthy foods come from healthy soils, healthy plants and healthy animals for a healthy environment and a healthy life” …. PACNEWS
Contact: Christopher Emsden
FAO News and Media (Rome)
(+39) 06 570 53291
PACNEWS SPORT
FIJI – RUGBY: FIJIAN DRUA PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 27 Jul 2026
Brad Mooar named Fijian Drua Men’s Head Coach for 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season
NADI, 27 JULY 2026 (FIJIAN DRUA) — The Fijian Drua has appointed highly respected New Zealand coach Brad Mooar as Head Coach of the Fijian Drua Men.
Mooar, a championship-winning Crusaders, former All Blacks and Scotland Assistant Coach, will take charge of the team ahead of the 2027 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season after agreeing to a two-year contract.
He brings extensive experience across Super Rugby Pacific where he has had enormous success as well as international rugby with the All Blacks and leading professional club environments like Scarlets in the UK.
His appointment follows an exhaustive global recruitment process. The selection panel which included Fijian Drua and Fiji Rugby leadership as well as an independent expert were unanimous in their endorsement.
Mooar was selected to lead the Drua into its next era after impressing with his deep expertise and ideas around playing a distinctly Fijian style of rugby with the discipline, consistency and physicality to compete in Super Rugby Pacific.
He is currently an Assistant Coach with the Crusaders, having returned to the franchise for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. He was previously part of the Crusaders coaching group from 2016 to 2019, contributing to three consecutive Super Rugby championship-winning campaigns.
Mooar was Head Coach of Welsh professional club Scarlets during the 2019–20 season before joining the All Blacks as backs and attack coach. He also worked with Scotland during the 2023 Six Nations Championship and Rugby World Cup.
Fijian Drua Chief Executive Officer Jeff Miller said Mooar stood out during an exceptionally competitive recruitment process: “This is one of the most important appointments in the short history of the Fijian Drua and we were determined to conduct a genuinely exhaustive process,” Miller said.
“We received applications from an outstanding group of coaches and were extremely impressed by the quality, experience and different perspectives presented throughout the process. Brad stood out through his technical and tactical knowledge, his experience in championship-winning environments, his understanding of player development and, importantly, his ability to build strong relationships.”
“He has coached at the highest levels of the game, has led his own professional programme and understands what is required to develop a clear Fijian rugby identity and create a consistently successful high-performance environment.”
“Brad also understands that coaching the Fijian Drua carries responsibilities extending beyond the field. Our purpose is to win Super Rugby Pacific, inspire a nation and change lives for the better. He has embraced that responsibility and we firmly believe Brad is the right person to lead the next phase of our journey. He will lead an exciting blend of coaching staff that will combine international experience with a strong local connection.”
Mooar said he was honoured to be appointed to one of the most unique and high-profile coaching roles in Southern Hemisphere rugby.
“It’s a tremendous honour to be given the opportunity to lead the Drua and coach Fiji’s team in Super Rugby Pacific. What drew me to this role is the chance to work with such wonderful athletes, to be part of a culture and a people I deeply admire, and to help build something meaningful for the nation.”
“I believe there are enormous opportunities for us to play a special brand of rugby that is successful, entertaining and inspiring. We want to inspire the country, win championships and continue to grow our people and the game in Fiji by creating something the country can be truly proud of. My family and I are very excited to join the Club, meet everyone and become part of the Drua vuvale. We can’t wait.”
Mooar also congratulated to the Fiji Drua Women’s team for topping the table for 2026 Super Rugby Women’s regular season and securing a home Grand Final.
“The Drua Women have had a remarkable season by becoming Minor Premiers and hosting the Grand Final. Massive congratulations to Mike Legge, Bitila Tawake, Kolora Lomani and the entire Drua Women’s squad and staff for this fantastic and historic occasion.”
Mooar began his coaching career in Christchurch club rugby before working within Canterbury’s age-grade programme.
He moved to South Africa in 2012, coaching with the Eastern Province Kings and Southern Kings, before returning to New Zealand as Head Coach and Director of Rugby at Southland.
He joined the Crusaders coaching staff in 2016 and helped guide the franchise to Super Rugby titles in 2017, 2018 and 2019. Mooar then joined Scarlets as Head Coach before returning to New Zealand to become part of the All Blacks coaching group.
He joined Scotland’s coaching staff for the 2023 Six Nations Championship and Rugby World Cup before returning to the Crusaders.
A former Mid Canterbury first five-eighth, Mooar is also a qualified lawyer.
Mooar will officially start with the Fijian Drua in September 2026 to prepare for the Men’s pre-season.
Further announcements regarding the Fijian Drua Men’s coaching group will be made in due course…. PACNEWS
PAC – COMMONWEALTH GAMES: PMN PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 27 July 2026
PNG’s Morea Baru wins Pacific’s first medal at Commonwealth Games
GLASGOW, 27 JULY 2026 (PMN) — Veteran Papua New Guinea weightlifter Morea Baru has secured the Pacific region’s first medal of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games after winning bronze in the men’s 65kg final.
Competing at the Scottish Events Campus (SEC Armadillo), the experienced lifter produced a combined total of 282kg, lifting 125kg in the snatch and 157kg in the clean and jerk.
Malaysia’s Muhamad Aznil Bidin took gold with a Games record total of 299kg while India’s Raja Muthupandi claimed the silver with 286kg.
Baru’s medal win is also a significant moment for Pacific athletes as he becomes the first competitor from the region to reach the podium in Glasgow.
Papua New Guinea is one of 11 Pacific Island nations competing at the Games, with PNG now among 14 countries on the medal tally out of 74 nations.
Baru, who carried PNG’s flag during the opening ceremony last Friday (NZ time), also represented his country at the Rio, Tokyo and Paris Olympics, where he finished fifth overall in the 61kg weight category.
Monday’s win adds another Commonwealth Games medal to his decorated career and has given the Pacific plenty to celebrate in the opening days of competition.
Team PNG celebrated the achievement on social media posting: “Strong, determined. Proudly PNG Congratulations, Morea. Papua New Guinea celebrates with you!” …. PACNEWS
