Tonga's main hospital, Vaiola Photo: RNZI / Koro Vaka'uta
Tonga - mental health
Tonga's health ministry has launched its long-awaited National Mental Health Strategy and Policy at Vaiola Hospital.
Health officials have described the move as a milestone in strengthening mental health services and coordination across Tonga.
The nation's head psychiatrist Dr Mapa Puloka said "mental health is everyone's responsibility".
A national survey released earlier this year found around six percent of Tongans reported notable psychological distress, yet 96 percent of those surveyed had never accessed mental health care.
The study also revealed that none of those identified with depression had previously seen a mental health professional.
Mental health challenges in Tonga are often compounded by stigma and limited service accessibility, especially in outer islands.
Pacific - health
The World Health Organisation regional director for the Western Pacific says artifical intelligence can be a game-changer for long-burdened health systems - if used ethically.
Dr Saia Ma'u Piukala said if AI is harnessed ethically and equitably, it can help close gaps in healthcare and bring the Western Pacific region closer to universal health coverage.
He said its uses can include generating patient education materials in local languages and supporting overworked health staff with documentation.
Member states will discuss how to scale AI responsibly across health systems at the upcoming 76th WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific.
Cook Islands - maritime jurisdiction
A commission has given its recommendations on the Cook Islands' submission to protect the Manihiki Plateau.
The Manihiki Plateau is a shield-shaped submarine geological formation located within the Cook Islands' Exclusive Economic Zone, which extends out into international waters.
With the Commission's recommendations received, the Cook Islands can move forward and formally define the outer limits of its continental shelf in this area, under international law.
The Government said in practical terms, the successful recognition of the Cook Islands' claim represents an area of approximately 350,000 square kilometres of additional seabed shelf forming part of the Cook Islands' maritime jurisdiction.
Tuvalu - Taiwan
Tuvalu's Prime Minister has praised Taiwan's innovation, compassion, and democratic spirit, saying they continue to inspire the world.
Pac News reported at celebrations marking Taiwan's National Day in Funafuti, Feleti Teo congratulated the Government and people of Taiwan.
He also reaffirmed Tuvalu's appreciation for more than four decades of close partnership.
Teo said both Tuvalu and Taiwan face similar challenges as small island nations, including the existential threat of climate change and growing geopolitical pressures.
Tonga - election
Prince Kalaniuvalu Fotofili is an early winner in next month's election after being confirmed as the sole candidate for his noble seat.
Voting day for the country's general election is set for 20 November.
Two sets of votes take place to elect 17 People's Representatives and nine noble representatives.
No other candidates are seeking to represent the Niuas islands, so Prince Kalaniuvalu Fotofili returns for another four-year term as the noble representative.
Fiji - Independence Day
The President of Fiji Ratu Lalabalavu has met with Fijians in the United Kingdom for Fiji Day.
Lalabalavu and his wife visited Swinton Barracks in Tidworth, around 120 kilometres southwest of London.
The president expressed his gratitude to the Government and the people of the UK for providing opportunities for Fijians to serve in the British Armed Forces.
The Head of State held a talanoa session with members of the Fijian community, where he provided updates on government programs.
