A serious drought hit Micronesia earlier this year, the worst hit areas were Yap state and its outer islands. Photo: ABC / Carl Smith
Federated States of Micronesia - election
The official results of the election for Yap State's two-year term seat, held on 4 March, have been finalised and certified.
Pacnews reported that Andy Choor secured 2438 votes, and will represent Yap State in the FSM Congress.
Other candidates included Alexander Tretnoff with 216 votes, Victor Nabeyan with 536 votes, and Fidelis Thiyer-Fanoway with 45 votes.
National Election commissioner John Chugen confirmed the outcome after a thorough review by the Central and Local Counting and Tabulating Committees, ensuring the election was fair and compliant with all laws.
Northern Mariana Islands - funding
The governor of the Northern Mariana Islands wants to use US$414 million in leftover pandemic support to jumpstart the territory's economy.
Palacios said his administration made the request during his recent trip to Washington.
He said those funds are already allocated to the CNMI and they are asking to repurpose those funds so that it doesn't have to go through the appropriation process in Congress.
Palacios said the money would go towards essential government services to shore up other industries, low interest loans to struggling businesses, incentivising airlines and tourism companies to come in, and to help the hotel industry.
Vanuatu - maritime
Discussions are underway between Vanuatu and China in an effort to bolster maritime cooperation.
Vanuatu's new fisheries, ocean, and maritime affairs, minister Jack Norris Kalmet, said Vanuatu is eager to leverage its resources and expertise to expand fishery exports to China.
Local media reported that following a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Vanuatu, Li Minggang, Kalmet told local media that Vanuatu's extensive territorial waters and rich marine resources make it a strong partner for China.
He said while no formal agreements have been announced, the commitment from both sides signals potential opportunities.
Fiji - ambassador
The President of Fiji has received a courtesy visit from the non-resident Ambassador of Israel to Fiji and the Pacific, Roi Rosenbilt, at State House.
Rosenbilt has been on a two-day tour of Fiji.
Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu extended Fiji's appreciation for Israel's continued support and commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
Fiji's government said the meeting highlighted opportunities for knowledge sharing, innovation, and technical assistance in support of
Fiji's development priorities.
Fiji will soon open an embassy in Jerusalem.
Solomon Islands - former Governor-General dies
The former Governor-General of the Solomon Islands, Sir David Okete Vuvuiri Vunagi, has died.
Local media reported his death has left the nation in mourning, with condolences pouring in from relatives and friends through social media.
Sir David served as Governor-General from 2019 to 2024 and was the Archbishop of Melanesia and Bishop of the Diocese of Central Melanesia from 2009 to 2015.
He was an educator, priest, and leader, with a significant background in education, theology, and public service.
Cook Islands - treaty
The Cook Islands foreign affairs secretary has congratulated the Marshall Islands for joining the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty.
The agreement was signed in Majuro during the observance of Nuclear Victims Remembrance Day.
Tepaeru Herrmann said the Cook islands has long stood in solidarity with the Marshall Islands and their ongoing struggles for justice, accountability and nuclear redress.
Herrmann reiterated the Cook Islands' support for the full ratification of the Treaty and also encouraged non-party forum members to accede the treaty.
