Australia is providing funding of just over US$2 million, along with technical expertise. Photo: Australian High Commission Solomon Islands
Solomon Islands - border
Australia is funding a border management system project for Solomon Islands.
The project aims to simplify the visa application process and facilitate the movement of people across the border.
Australia is providing funding of just over US$2 million, along with technical expertise. Papua New Guinea, which uses the same system, is providing knowledge on visa and travel facilitation process.
The new system will also enable border officers to collaborate closely with other countries in the Pacific that use the same system, including PNG.
Papua New Guinea - policy
Papua New Guinea's Information and Communications Technology Minister has announced the approval of the National Media Development Policy.
Timothy Masiu described it as a landmark achievement for the media sector in PNG.
Local media report many journalists expressed concerns about potential government control over media during early consultations.
The government has clarified its intentions, emphasising the aim is not to control the media but to support growth and sustainability.
Guam - missile
Members of the public in Guam attended open-house meetings last week to learn more about the 360-degree Enhanced Integrated Air and Missile Defense System being planned for Guam.
The military is seeking public input on a draft environmental impact statement for the missile defense system.
The Guam Daily Post reports that, if a decision is made to proceed with the proposed missile defense system, site preparation and construction would begin in 2025, with work continuing through 2035, site by site.
Palau - diplomacy
Beijing has stated that Palau should fulfill its international law obligations by recognising China instead of Taiwan.
China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning responded to a question from the media regarding Palau and its recent election results, saying that only a few countries, including Palau, still maintain what she called "diplomatic relations" with Taiwan.
She said that "such practices not only go against the interests of these countries but they also violate China's sovereignty".
While the election results have not been officially certified, tabulation indicates President Whipps is on track to serve his second term.
Whipps has accused China of pressuring Palau to sever ties with Taiwan.
Samoa - hospital
An electrical surge has damaged the main X-ray machine at Samoa's Tupua Tamasese Meaole National Hospital in Apia.
The Samoa Observer reported that Director General of Health Aiono Alec Ekeroma said it could take up to a month for the machine to be fully repaired.
Aiono said that the damage was caused by an unexpected electrical surge, which has left the equipment out of operation.
He added that parts will be needed from overseas.
However, Aiono said patient care has not been compromised, as the mobile X-ray unit, which is typically used for emergencies and in-patient care, is still fully operational.
Non-medical X-rays, such as those for immigration purposes, will not be conducted.
Fiji - water
Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says plans are in place to connect Korovuto settlement, on the outskirts of Nadi, to Fiji's water reticulation system.
FBC reports that 80 families living there depend on boreholes for their daily needs but the water quality has raised health concerns.
Residents' spokesperson Tailasa Mavoa said the community had made repeated appeals to authorities.
During a recent visit to Korovuto, Rabuka acknowledged the water crisis and assured residents the government is committed to resolving the issue.
Northern Marianas - meth
The Marianas' vice speaker has urged the Department of Public Safety to look into methamphetamine use in the northern part of Saipan.
The Marianas Variety reports that Joel Camancho told the DPS commissioner there seems to be a 'really nasty methamphetamine problem up north'.
Camacho, who represents Precinct 4, said one of every five persons he encounters there exhibits symptoms of meth abuse.
DPS Commissioner Anthony Macaranas said the drug enforcement task force had combined with federal operatives, and are still conducting operations on island.
He said that the meth problem is one of the reasons he activated a police station in San Roque.
Northern Marianas - resort
The former Hyatt Regency Saipan is set to open as a Beach Resort next week.
The Marianas Variety reports Saipan Portopia Corporation, which was doing business as Hyatt Regency Saipan, transferred its remaining 38-year land lease with the Department of Public Lands to MB Capital LLC in September.
MB Capital general manager Gloria Cavanaugh said they signed a memorandum of understanding with Sheraton, but they will open as Marianas Beach Resort.
She said that before they can call themselves Sheraton, they must meet "a whole list of requirements," including renovations of the lobby, and having all-day restaurants.
COP29 - Greenpeace
Greenpeace Australia Pacific is asking for talks at the UN climate conference in Azerbaijan to speed up.
Parties at the COP are seeking to increase the annual climate financing target from US$100 billion originally set in 2009, but reports on the ground have been that progress has been sluggish.
Head of Greenpeace Shiva Gounden said the first week was filled with mostly unhelpful developments.
He said that the failing to reach consensus in Baku will mean failing real people including the Pacific family.
