A police landcruiser patrols the streets of the Papua New Guinea capital Port Moresby. Photo: RNZ Pacific/ Koroi Hawkins
Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea's government has defended the use of force to evict residents of an informal settlement in Port Moresby.
Police used tear gas to move people out of the Two-Mile settlement, while heavy machinery was used to tear down homes.
Acting Prime Minister John Rosso said the eviction was necessary to protect law-abiding citiizens from long-running criminal activity in the community.
The National reported him saying the settlement was on state land which had been unlawfully occupied for years.
The eviction operation prompted unrest and clashes between some settlers and police which left two people dead and others injured.
Tonga
Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua says his government has set a 100-day plan that aims to lift public service to the people of Tonga in that time period.
Speaking to the media in his new government's first press conference in Nuku'alofa, he said the "all of government" approach is critical.
Changes being earmarked include the speeding up of passport printing, especially for Tongans overseas, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and online service for Tongans in the diaspora who need urgent assistance on their land titles, through the Ministry of Lands.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs is reviewing the Tonga Labor Mobility Policy to help better the management of Tongans working through the PALM scheme in Australia and the RSE scheme in New Zealand.
Palau
Palau has announced its inaugural ambassador to Australia, saying it marks a milestone in their bilateral relations.
The Island Times reported Ronald Merar brings decades of experience in education, public service and regional leadership positions to the new role.
Officials said the role will strengthen cooperation on climate resilience, security, education and development assistance.
Merar's appointment was unanimously approved by Palau's senate.
Fiji
Officials from Fiji and the United States have had a catch-up in Suva, where they reportedly reaffirmed their commitment to bilateral and regional cooperation.
Fijian Foreign Affairs Minister Sakiasi Ditoka met with the Chargé d'Affaires of the US Embassy in Suva John Degory at the Ministry headquarters.
FBC reported that both sides confirmed their shared commitment to advancing cooperation through continued dialogue and collaboration.
This month, Fiji was included on a list of 75 countries for whom the US has suspend the issue of migration visas, although the suspension does not apply to non-immigrant visas, such as for tourism or business.
It is not clear if the Fiji minister spoke to the US diplomat about the issue.
Tonga
Tonga has received equipment from the World Health Organisation in relation to a surveillance program.
STEPS is a national health survey that collects information on non-communicable disease risk factors, such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, diet, physical activity, blood pressure, blood sugar, and body measurements.
The Ministry of Health said the survey will help guide future health planning and policies in Tonga.
Pacific Islands Forum
Pacific Islands Forum secretary-general Baron Waqa extended condolences to New Zealand following the Mt Maunganui disaster.
In a statement, Waqa said the Pacific Islands Forum family extends its deepest condolences to the people and Government of New Zealand.
He said their hearts are with all families and loved ones impacted.
Palau
A new women-led health initiative has launched in Palau, drawing inspiration from a traditional Palauan proverb about holistic wellbeing.
The Island Times reported the programme follows the belief that true strength comes from balance between body, mind and spirit.
Founder Jo Ngoriakl said the 12-week course combines physical activity, with guided self reflection such as journalling in a confidential space.
She hoped the initiative will encourage Palauan women to invest in their health without guilt, to strengthen families and communities.
