Photo: RNZ/ Nick Monro
Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands has formally introduced new regulations targeting the possession, supply, distribution and manufacture of methamphetamine.
SBM Online reported the rules close a major legal gap by clearly defining offenses under the Dangerous Drugs Act.
Prior to the law change, it was technically not illegal to possess or manufacture meth in Solomon Islands.
Offenders breaching the new rules will now face penalties for any production, distribution or supply.
Fiji
Former Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica has been select to head the Parliament body in charge of scrutinising government spending.
The Fiji Times reported his appointment as chair of the public accounts committee was announced in Parliament.
He stood down as deputy PM last month due to corruption charges.
Kamikamica's defence was to apply for a permanent stay on his charges.
The case is next due in court on Friday, 28 November.
Guam
A US Navy chief has told Guam-based personnel to heighten their readiness capabilities.
Chief of Naval Operations admiral Daryl Caudle has been touring US Navy stations across the Pacific, including Guam and Hawai'i.
A directive issued in 2024 said the Navy are aiming to be fully prepared for a potential Pacific conflict by 2027, but Admiral Caudle told sailors he wants them to ready "in 27 minutes from now".
It was his first overseas tour as the Navy's top officer, using the trip to focus on sailor welfare and Navy readiness and to engage with military and civilian leaders.
Vanuatu
Early projections indicate Vanuatu ports are scheduled to receive 125 cruise ship stops in the first four months of 2026.
The Vanuatu Daily Post reported cruises are set to visit Port Vila, Mystery Island, Luganville and some outer island destinations.
Director of Tourism Paul Pio said while schedules can change due to operational and weather factors, the upward momentum is clear.
The tourism department continues to work with provincial governments, community tourism associations and other stakeholders to ensure increased cruise activity translates into meaningful economic benefits.
Fiji
The Fijian Media Association (FMA) is demanding stronger security measures after an FBC journalist was attacked outside a courthouse on Monday.
The journalist was pushed down the stairs - allegedly by a person convicted of murder - while officers scrambled to catch up.
The FMA said attacks on journalists at court is a reoccurring issue, and stronger police protection is needed.
Fiji
Minister of Agriculture Tomasi Tunabuna says pineapples exported into the New Zealand market will have to compete against supplies from other countries.
Tunabuna said there are issues his ministry will discuss with stakeholders to ensure quality is maintained.
Tunabuna said this is what they learned from their meetings with partners in Wellington and Auckland last week.
He added the potential is huge but the critical factor is ensuring quality is at its best, after the first shipment hit the Auckland markets last week.
