International
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Fiji-NZ Naval Talks Set Course for Pacific Maritime Security
Pacific maritime security is tightening its weave through new partnerships. A Fiji Navy delegation’s visit to New Zealand explored crafting and executing a Maritime Security Strategy, spotlighting risk assessment and multi-agency cooperation. Bilateral talks with NZ’s Chief of Navy and UK-backed, UNDP-supported efforts point to stronger governance and safer, more resilient seas across the region.
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Fiji Police and AFP Deepen Regional Security Partnership
Regional security takes a step forward as Fiji and Australia deepen policing ties during a high-profile visit in Suva. The talks spotlight joint initiatives to strengthen public trust and adapt to evolving crime threats across the Pacific.
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Trump’s Nuclear Testing Hint Sparks Alarm Over Pacific Nuclear Legacy
Old wounds from decades of nuclear testing in the Pacific rise again as global tensions flare. For communities still living with the consequences, calls for accountability and healing clash with a wary world watching the balance of power.
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Two Neighbours, One Fence: The Growing Australia-PNG Partnership
Two neighbours, one shared future: Australia and Papua New Guinea are deepening ties—from longstanding camaraderie to a growing economic partnership and new travel links—spotlighting a Pacific future shaped by people-to-people connections.
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Fiji Joins UN-Backed Push to Tighten Arms Controls Under Melanesian Arms Trade Treaty Initiative
Fiji is stepping up its arms-control framework through a new regional partnership designed to boost inter-agency coordination and oversight. Backed by targeted support for Melanesian participation in the Arms Trade Treaty, the initiative promises stronger monitoring and safer, more responsible arms transfers across the region.
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Thai-Cambodian Border Clashes Escalate as Ceasefire Hangs by a Thread
Escalating clashes along the Thailand–Cambodia border test a fragile ceasefire as both sides lock horns and civilians come under fire. With diplomacy in doubt, observers watch for any sign of de-escalation amid renewed fighting.
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Trump Questions Europe’s Resolve on Ukraine, Hints at U.S. Rethink of Support
Trump fires a blistering critique of Europe’s leadership, hinting the U.S. may rethink its support for Ukraine. He paints Europe as decaying on migration and security, claims Russia has the upper hand, and suggests Zelensky consider concessions. Britain responds with a sharp rebuke, underscoring unity with sanctions and Western resolve.
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UN Designates December 14 as International Day Against Colonialism; Fiji Abstains
Fiji abstained as the UN established a new International Day Against Colonialism, sparking a broader conversation about colonial legacies and the futures of affected territories.
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Anglican CIVA Programme Maps Pacific Vulnerabilities to Build Disaster Resilience
Anglican communities across the Pacific are mobilizing resilience with a new grassroots programme that blends digital mapping, community consultations, and youth leadership. From evacuation planning to securing food and water in emergencies, it helps identify needs and strengthen local networks before and after disasters.
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Radar Lock-On Triggers China-Japan Tensions Near Miyako Strait
Rising tensions in the region as China and Japan trade sharp condemnations over radar lock-ons and provocative drills near disputed waters. With both sides accusing the other, the situation underscores the fragile balance and the need for renewed dialogue to ease security concerns.
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Starmer and EU Leaders Eye Frozen Russian Assets to Back Ukraine
European leaders unveil a bold plan to mobilize frozen Russian assets for Ukraine, pairing urgent aid with renewed pressure on Moscow. The move signals a pragmatic shift in how the war’s aftermath could be funded and the broader effort to support Kyiv.
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Thai-Cambodian Border Clashes Escalate as Civilians Flee and Diplomatic Strains Rise
Violence flares along the Thailand–Cambodia border, forcing evacuations and challenging a fragile ceasefire. With both sides trading blame, regional stability hangs in the balance—and the path to peace remains unclear.
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Guterres Condemns East Jerusalem UNRWA Compound Raid
After a raid on a UNRWA compound in East Jerusalem, the UN Secretary-General issued a strong condemnation and affirmed the premises’ inviolability. An urgent call follows to protect the facility and safeguard aid for Palestinian refugees amid rising tensions.
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International lawmakers visit Dharamsala to meet the Dalai Lama amid Tibetan rights talks
An international delegation from Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji heads to Dharamshala for a four-day program, including a meeting with the Dalai Lama and talks with Tibetan leaders. The visit coincides with World Human Rights Day and the 36th anniversary of the Dalai Lama’s Nobel Peace Prize, underscoring ongoing support for Tibetan culture and rights.
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Seoul Hosts Korea-Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting to Boost Pacific Partnerships
Pacific partners converge in Seoul to map a future of resilient, peaceful cooperation—from climate resilience and ocean governance to people-to-people exchanges. As ministers steer Korea–Pacific Island ties toward deeper coordination, the talks hint at a renewed, collaborative path for the region.
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Video Sparks Bipartisan Debate Over U.S. Caribbean Military Strikes
– A Caribbean strike and the video that followed are sparking a heated debate over legality and ethics in U.S. anti-drug missions. As lawmakers clash on a controversial second attack, questions about transparency come to the fore. – New footage from a recent Caribbean operation raises sharp questions about how far U.S. drug interdiction should…
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World Bank and ADB Launch $239.5M Push to Modernize Fiji’s Healthcare
Two major lenders are teaming up to tackle non-communicable diseases across the Pacific with a sweeping health transformation. The Pacific Healthy Islands Transformation aims to modernize primary care, boost resilience, and inaugurate new regional health infrastructure—potentially reshaping care for millions across several island nations.
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Michoacan explosion near police station linked to cartel violence
An explosion outside a police station in Michoacán has shaken a region already grappling with organized crime. Casualties include members of a local community police, underscoring the fragile path toward security. As authorities bolster security efforts, residents face a tense road ahead.
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Russia Welcomes U.S. National Security Strategy, Sees Path to Ukraine Talks
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov hails a new U.S. strategy as surprisingly aligned with Moscow, hinting at possible cooperation on Ukraine. But ongoing violence and fraught diplomacy remind us how fragile any path to peace remains.
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Benin Foils Coup Attempt as West Africa Faces Growing Unrest
An early-morning bid to seize power in Benin was halted after soldiers appeared on TV claiming control. Officials say the takeover was neutralized, but the incident underscored regional instability and left questions about Benin’s democratic trajectory lingering.
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Gaza Ceasefire Phase Two Hinges on Hostage Remains as International Force Looms
Here are a few short teaser options you can use for the post excerpt: – A potential second phase of the Gaza ceasefire could begin soon, but only if key conditions—including the return of a missing hostage’s remains—are met. The plan envisions Hamas disarmament and an international stabilization framework. – Cautious optimism surrounds talks of…
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Fiji-Kuwait Ties Boosted as New Ambassador Presents Credentials
Fiji broadens its diplomatic footprint in the Gulf as a new ambassador presents credentials to Kuwait, signaling a renewed push for closer ties. The budding partnership hints at joint opportunities in trade, investment, and sustainable development across several sectors.
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MCC Arrives in Fiji to Map a Bold Development Compact
An international development delegation arrived in Fiji for a week of high-level talks on a potential development compact. The discussions aim to pinpoint constraints to growth and lay the groundwork for initiatives that could boost education, healthcare, and local jobs for Fiji’s communities.
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China-Fiji 50th Anniversary: Commemorative Envelope Signals Deepening Ties
Celebrating 50 years of China-Fiji ties, a commemorative envelope blends cultural symbols from both nations, foreshadowing renewed cooperation. With a major five-year plan on the horizon, officials emphasize people-first policies and a shared path to prosperity.
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Hong Kong Election at a Crossroads Amid Tragedy and Patriot Vetting
Hong Kong faces a pivotal vote as the city remains in mourning after a devastating fire and swept up in investigations. With candidates limited by a patriot-only framework, this election unfolds under intense scrutiny and a high-stakes mood.
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Suva Volunteers Unite for International Volunteer Day Beach Cleanup
On International Volunteer Day, volunteers from local and international groups gathered in Suva for a day of collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and hands-on service. From energizing morning sessions to a coastal cleanup, the event underscored Fiji’s vibrant volunteer spirit and the power of collective action.
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WCPFC seals new South Pacific Albacore management measure promising stability for fleets and markets
After years of bargaining, a new management approach for South Pacific albacore promises stability for fleets, coastal communities, and global markets. The coming year will test how the agreement is turned into practical steps through 2026. The outcome could redefine livelihoods across the Pacific and beyond.
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Fijian Flying Circus Set for 2026 New Zealand Tour
Fiji’s Fijian Flying Circus is set to ignite New Zealand stages in 2026, blending contemporary dance, circus artistry, and Pacific storytelling. Supported by NZ cultural partners, the troupe will headline two major festivals, marking a bold new chapter for Fijian artists and Pacific exchange.
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China Expands Belt and Road Cooperation with Fiji Ahead of 50th Anniversary
China signals a renewed Belt and Road partnership with Fiji, pairing large-scale infrastructure with targeted, community-focused programs. A mix of green energy, climate resilience, and smart farming tech points to a future designed around Fiji’s development priorities.
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Pacific Frustration Grows as COP31 Hosting Shifts Away from Australia
Diplomatic tensions rise as hosting plans for a pivotal climate summit shift, leaving Pacific voices seeking louder action. Australia’s bid is paused, with Turkey stepping in, while critics dismiss the COP process as a “talk fest” that rarely delivers on accountability. The move signals bigger questions about climate leadership and justice in the region.