POLITICS

In a significant escalation of ongoing tensions, France has declared a state of emergency in New Caledonia, an overseas territory, following days of violent riots that resulted in the deaths of several indigenous Kanak people and a police officer. The unrest was triggered by a controversial decision from Paris to change voting eligibility rules, allowing […]

The recent involvement of Chinese police in the Pacific Islands, particularly in Kiribati and Tonga, signals a concerning shift in the geopolitical landscape of this strategically important region. Australia’s Pacific Minister, Pat Conroy, has voiced strong opposition, stating unequivocally that there should be “no role” for China in policing the Pacific Islands. This stance comes

In a significant address concluding the parliamentary session on Thursday, May 2nd, 2024, His Majesty King Tupou VI of Tonga emphasised the critical importance of accountability, transparency, private sector engagement, and the urgent need to combat drug abuse within the nation.Accountability: Accountability was a central theme of King Tupou VI’s speech, stressing the government’s obligation

The 53rd Pacific Leaders Forum was launched by the Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni at the Faonelua Convention Centre on April 10th. However, a cloud of concern loomed as the Prime Minister revealed in Parliament the following day his plan to address the shortage of accommodation for the 1,000 guests expected in Tonga for the Forum.

A leaked document from Tonga’s Foreign Affairs Ministry shows that officials sharply criticised Australia and New Zealand’s response to the security pact signed by China and Solomon Islands, according to the ABC News. In 2022, the Morrison and Ardern governments tried to rally Pacific nations to press Solomon Islands not to sign the vaguely worded

On Thursday 4 April 2024, Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni expressed a willingness to accept China’s offer of security assistance for the upcoming major regional summit in the South Pacific kingdom. This move has sparked concerns in the United States, which is actively working to mitigate China’s expanding influence in the region.Prime Minister Sovaleni reassured that

The Prime Minister honoured the departing Australian High Commissioner, Her Excellency Rachael Moore in a farewell event at the Australian Residence in Nuku’alofa on ThursdayApril 4.The Hon Hu’akavameiliku, expressed profound thanks in his farewell speech for her distinguished service in diplomacy over the past years. Despite the challenges posed by the Hunga-Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcanic eruption,

Prime Minister Hon Hu’akavameiliku has finally confirmed his resignation (reported by Tonga Independent bit.ly/4crPLxJ ) and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Hon Fekitamoeloa ‘Utoikamanu, from their roles in His Majesty’s Armed Forces (HMAF) and Foreign Affairs & Tourism, effective March 28, 2024. In Nuku’alofa on April 4, the Prime Minister Undertakes Cabinet Reshuffle

Australia is gearing up to introduce a new Pacific quota within its permanent migration policy, offering a landmark opportunity for the Pacific Islands and Timor-Leste. This new Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) allocates 3,000 visas annually, aiming for a fair distribution among potential applicants. Unlike typical visa processes that favour skilled migrants, the PEV will operate

The controversy surrounding the recent share transaction between Lulutai Airlines and the Retirement Fund Board has escalated, with MPs expressing disappointment over the lack of transparency from the government. In our previous article, we delved into the concerns raised by several Members of Parliament regarding the transaction, highlighting their frustration at the government’s apparent disregard