PACNEWS THREE, 20 OCTOBER 2026

PNG – DIPLOMACY: PACNEWS                  PACNEWS 3: Tue 20 Oct 2026

Australia, PNG to turn new alliance into defence and economic action

PORT MORESBY, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (PACNEWS)— Australia and Papua New Guinea are meeting in Port Moresby to advance defence, security and economic cooperation under a new alliance that marks a major shift in their bilateral relationship.

The Australia-Papua New Guinea Ministerial Forum, being held on Tuesday, is the first since the Pukpuk Treaty entered into force in July, establishing Papua New Guinea’s first alliance with another country and Australia’s first new alliance in more than 70 years.

Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles said the forum would focus on turning the treaty into practical outcomes for both countries.

“The Pukpuk Treaty reflects the next phase of a relationship built over generations and demonstrates our shared commitment to strengthening security cooperation between our two nations,” Marles said.

He said both governments were investing in their people, infrastructure and institutions to support regional stability and long-term prosperity.

The meeting will focus on strengthening defence and security ties, as well as cooperation on telecommunications and critical infrastructure.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the alliance reflected the importance Canberra placed on its relationship with Papua New Guinea amid growing regional strategic competition.

“In a more contested region, strong relationships matter more than ever.

“Australia is committed to the sustained engagement and trust that underpin our partnership with Papua New Guinea,” Wong said.

Wong said she looked forward to meeting Papua New Guinea Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko and other ministers to identify practical outcomes from the alliance.

The Australian delegation includes ministers responsible for employment, the environment, communications, defence industry, Pacific affairs, emergency management and regional development, reflecting the broad scope of cooperation under discussion.

The ministerial forum is being held alongside the annual Papua New Guinea-Australia Business Dialogue, which brings together government and business representatives to explore opportunities to increase trade and investment, create jobs and strengthen economic resilience.

Marles said continued engagement between the two countries was important to building a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.

Following the forum, Marles will travel to Timor-Leste on 21 October to advance defence cooperation under the new partnership established by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão earlier this year.

It will be Marles’ second visit to Timor-Leste since the launch of the Parseria Foun ba Era Foun (New Partnership for a New Era)…PACNEWS

A/SAMOA – DEEP SEA MINING: PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES  PACNEWS 3: Tue 20 Oct 2026

U.S takes final step to award first seabed mineral lease sale in American Samoa

PAGOPAGO/WASHINGTON, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES)—-The Marine Minerals Administration today issued the final notice for a seabed minerals lease sale offshore American Samoa, covering two areas totaling 31.4 million acres, taking the last step before the sale award set for 19 November.

The federal agency emphasised that a winning bid and a lease do not grant immediate permission to harvest deep-sea minerals; they only authorize preliminary activities such as mapping. 

MMA said the lease award will be followed by a multi-stage post-auction regulatory process prior to physical exploration, testing or full-scale commercial harvesting.

“Critical minerals are no longer just commodities; they are a vital strategic asset in global competition, essential for reaching our energy efficiency goals, strengthening our national defence, and securing domestic supply chains,” said Mike Olsen, acting MMA director 

“MMA recognises the ocean floor surrounding American Samoa carries cultural, economic and environmental significance, requiring that the pursuit of national security and energy readiness is balanced with rigorous environmental stewardship,” he added.

American Samoa Governor Nikolau Pula has asked the U.S government for equitable federal-territorial revenue sharing from commercial operations.

While saying it supports the governor’s request, MMA said it is not currently authorised by law to offer revenue sharing.

“MMA notes the submission of H.R. 10318 by Rep King-Hinds that recognises the importance of revenue sharing in Pacific territories,” the agency said.

“MMA is actively working with the Department of the Interior leadership, lawmakers and relevant stakeholders to support efforts toward new statutory authority for American Samoa to receive a fair share of revenues generated from offshore mineral leasing associated with the territory,” it added.

The federal agency issued the notice amid a pending lawsuit filed by an environmental coalition led by Earthjustice seeking to halt the sale of leases.

Olsen assured American Samoa that as MAA evaluates potential deep-sea resources, its priority remains guided by science, environmental review and meaningful engagement with the people and leadership of the territory.

The MMA’s environmental assessment report said the proposed exploration “is not expected to constitute an irretrievable and irreversible commitment of resources, since the leases considered do not authorize any mining operations.”

The report said that marine cultural resources are unlikely to be found in the deepwater action area.

However, MMA said that existing federal historic preservation and environmental laws and regulations would reduce the magnitude of overall impacts on any cultural resources present in the lease areas…..PACNEWS

PALAU – HUMAN TRAFFIICKING: ISLAND TIMES    PACNEWS 3: Tue 20 Oct 2026

Palau remains Tier 2 in human trafficking report as prosecutions stall

KOROR, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (ISLAND TIMES) — Palau remains on Tier 2 in the U.S Department of State’s 2026 Trafficking in Persons Report, a ranking it has held for much of the past two decades, as the government continues to struggle to prosecute traffickers, protect victims and close gaps in laws governing foreign workers.

The report recognises that Palau has increased efforts to fight human trafficking, including identifying more victims, providing temporary work permits to victims and investigating a law enforcement officer suspected of involvement in trafficking crimes.

However, the report also points to major shortcomings. For the third consecutive year, Palau did not prosecute or convict any traffickers. The government also lacks a shelter available to trafficking victims and has not prohibited employers or recruitment agencies from charging workers recruitment fees.

Palau has been ranked Tier 2 in U.S trafficking reports since at least 2009, although it was placed on the Tier 2 Watch List in 2021 and 2022 before returning to Tier 2 in 2023. The ranking means the government does not fully meet the minimum standards for eliminating human trafficking but is making significant efforts to meet them.

The 2026 report says the government demonstrated overall increasing efforts compared with the previous reporting period, allowing Palau to remain on Tier 2 rather than face a lower ranking.

Palau initiated seven human trafficking investigations during the reporting period: one involving sex trafficking and six involving forced labour. That was down from 13 investigations in the previous reporting period.

Authorities determined that four potential forced labor cases did not meet the legal definition of trafficking or lacked sufficient evidence. Another case was closed after the suspect was deported. Three forced labor investigations from earlier reporting periods remained open.

The report identified inadequate resources, victims’ fear of retaliation and mistrust of authorities as barriers to effective investigations.

It also raised concerns about possible official involvement in trafficking. The government investigated one law enforcement officer for alleged complicity in trafficking crimes and suspended the officer without pay. The report said corruption and official complicity continued to be significant concerns that hindered law enforcement efforts.

Palau has laws criminalizing sex trafficking and labor trafficking. Under the 2023 Anti-People Smuggling and Trafficking Act, adults’ trafficking cases carry penalties of one to 25 years in prison and fines of up to US$125,000. Cases involving child victims carry penalties of two to 25 years in prison and fines of up to US$250,000.

Despite these laws, the absence of prosecutions and convictions remains one of the clearest signs of the gap between having legal protections and enforcing them.

The report also said the absence of cybercrime-related laws has hindered authorities’ ability to prosecute trafficking linked to online scam operations.

The report recorded progress in identifying and assisting trafficking victims.

Palau identified seven victims during the reporting period, all foreign nationals. Six were victims of forced labor and one was a victim of sex trafficking. This was an increase from two victims identified in the previous reporting period.

The government assisted six victims, compared with two previously, providing legal support, help finding jobs, housing relocation, wellness checks and basic necessities.

Government spending on victim assistance also increased slightly, from approximately US$2,300 in 2024 to US$3,000 in 2025.

Authorities granted four temporary work permits and one extended work permit to trafficking victims, compared with one work permit in the previous reporting period. These permits can help victims remain legally employed rather than be forced to return to exploitative working conditions.

The report said victims did not have to participate in law enforcement proceedings to receive services. Six victims voluntarily participated in investigations.

However, the lack of a government shelter, long-term support services and sufficient funding for victim protection continues to limit the help available to people escaping exploitation.

The government, working with a foreign government, continued construction of a national shelter for crime victims, including trafficking victims. Until that shelter becomes available, the report said, the lack of dedicated accommodation remains a major weakness in Palau’s response.

The report identifies foreign workers as particularly vulnerable to trafficking in Palau.

Foreign nationals account for about one-third of the country’s population of approximately 18,000. Workers with limited education or English-language skills face increased risks, especially when they depend on employers or recruiters for jobs, immigration status and housing.

Workers from countries including the Philippines, Bangladesh, Nepal, Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea and China may pay thousands of dollars in recruitment fees to secure jobs in Palau. In some cases, workers pay as much as US$8,000 before arriving.

Some workers are then exploited in domestic service, agriculture, construction, hospitality and food service. Others face forced labor on fishing boats or in illegal online gambling and online scam operations.

The report said traffickers sometimes confiscate workers’ passports to prevent them from leaving. Some foreign workers are also vulnerable when they arrive on tourist visas and are told to change to employment visas after reaching Palau.

Palauan girls are also exploited in sex trafficking, primarily in Koror and Airai, according to the report. Traffickers may use social media and messaging applications to target potential victims.

These risks highlight the importance of effective labour protections, careful recruitment practices and stronger systems for identifying workers who may be experiencing exploitation.

Despite the continuing problems, the report outlines several steps the government has taken to strengthen its response.

The Anti-Human Trafficking Unit coordinates national efforts, leads implementation of the 2022-2025 National Action Plan and has developed an updated plan. A government and nongovernmental organisation working group also met to share information about cases and coordinate policies.

The government has provided training for law enforcement, labor, immigration and marine officials on identifying victims, particularly in the fishing industry, and addressing challenges in gathering evidence. Officials and victim advocates also received training on trauma-informed care, which focuses on helping victims without causing further harm.

The government has continued public awareness activities and operates an anti-trafficking hotline for potential victims.

Authorities have also received greater authority to review visa applications, nonresident work permits and foreign investment applications, which the report says could help strengthen immigration controls and reduce trafficking risks.

In addition, the government began implementing a system to streamline customs-related financial transactions. The system is intended to help authorities identify fraudulent transactions that may be connected to criminal activity, including trafficking.

These steps show that efforts are underway, but the report indicates that more action is needed to produce stronger enforcement and protection outcomes.

One of the report’s major concerns is that Palau has not prohibited workers from paying recruitment fees.

The government also lacks a formal labor recruitment system, a pre-approval visa process and minimum wage requirements for agricultural and domestic service workers, according to the report. These gaps can leave workers vulnerable to debt, deception and forced labor.

The report said the government has not effectively regulated labor recruiters or held them civilly and criminally liable for fraudulent recruitment practices.

Although authorities have an informal policy of placing workers with another employer when they experience hardship, the report indicates that stronger formal protections are needed.

Public awareness campaigns also have not specifically targeted foreign worker communities considered especially vulnerable to trafficking.

The government’s efforts to update its national action plan and strengthen visa reviews provide a foundation for further action. However, the report makes clear that these measures need to be accompanied by stronger recruitment rules, better victim services and effective enforcement.

Tier 2 is not a finding that a country has eliminated trafficking or fully met international standards. It indicates that a government is making significant efforts but still falls short of the minimum requirements.

For Palau, the latest report presents a mixed picture: more victims identified, increased assistance and continued work on prevention, but fewer investigations, no new prosecutions or convictions, and continued gaps in shelter services and worker protections.

The report’s findings point to the need for Palau to turn its existing laws, training and policy initiatives into measurable results — including successful investigations and prosecutions, stronger protection for victims, and safeguards that prevent workers from being trapped in exploitative jobs.

For a country that has remained at Tier 2 for much of the past two decades, the challenge is not simply to maintain its ranking. It is to demonstrate that its efforts are making it harder for traffickers to exploit people and easier for victims to seek help and rebuild their lives….PACNEWS

VAN – DIPLOMACY/VISA FEE: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS 3: Tue 20 Oct 2026

Vanuatu exempt from Australian international student visa fee hikes

CANBERRA/PORT VILA, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST)—Vanuatu will be exempt from increases to Australia’s international student visa fees, following the inaugural meeting of the Vanuatu-Australia Nakamal Committee in Canberra last week.

The Vanuatu delegation was led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Management Johnny Koanapo, and included Minister of Youth, Justice and Community Services Job Andy. They were welcomed by Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong, and Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Pat Conroy MP.

The Nakamal Committee is a bilateral forum established under the Vanuatu-Australia Nakamal Agreement to oversee its implementation. The agreement elevates the two countries’ relationship and deepens economic, security and people-to-people cooperation.

The Committee agreed on early priorities, including budget support, stronger policing cooperation, climate cooperation and support for communities affected by El Niño and volcanic ash.

On infrastructure and economic transformation, the delegation met with the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) to discuss maritime and aviation infrastructure and rebuilding in Port Vila, Santo and Tanna. Both sides committed to the early delivery of two renewable energy and water projects for remote schools and communities in Vanuatu.

On security, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to a peaceful, stable and secure Pacific and Pacific-led approaches to security. Vanuatu reaffirmed that, under the Nakamal Agreement, Australia is recognised as its longstanding primary policing partner. Vanuatu also said its policing arrangement with China is time-limited and expected to reduce, while the Nakamal Agreement is legally binding and enduring.

On cultural connections, the delegation received a Welcome to Country led by Aunty Serena Williams and met with Australian South Sea Islander representatives and Australia’s Ambassador for First Nations People.

They reflected on the shared history of blackbirding and discussed ways to strengthen connections between First Nations, Australian South Sea Islander and ni-Vanuatu communities. Acknowledging this shared history, deepening dialogue and strengthening cultural connections are central to the Nakamal Agreement.

DPM Koanapo also held separate bilateral meetings with Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, and Minister for Home Affairs, Tony Burke.

Australia confirmed that Vanuatu would be exempt from increases to international student visa fees, for which Koanapo thanked Burke. He also thanked Burke for the Australian Government’s commitment to protecting the rights of Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme workers.

Both countries agreed that the inaugural meeting marked an important step forward and reaffirmed their commitment to working as equal partners, guided by mutual respect, trust and understanding, leading up to Vanuatu’s 50th anniversary of Independence in 2030.

The full statements on the meeting’s outcomes are available from the Vanuatu Prime Minister’s Office and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade….PACNEWS

VAN – POLITICS: VANUATU DAILY POST      PACNEWS 3: Tue 20 Oct 2026

Howard Aru sworn in as Vanuatu MP after meeting 70 percent threshold, second runner-up to qualify

PORT VILA, 20 0CTOBER 2206 (VANUATU DAILY POST) —Vanua’aku Pati (VP) politician Howard Aru took his oath as a Member of Parliament Monday, becoming the second runner-up candidate to qualify under Vanuatu’s 70 percent electoral threshold for filling a vacant parliamentary seat.

Aru’s swearing-in follows the sudden passing of Ambae MP John Still Tari Qetu last month, leaving a vacancy in the three-member Ambae constituency.

Under Vanuatu’s Electoral Act, a vacant parliamentary seat can be filled by an unsuccessful candidate from the previous election if they received at least 70 percent of the votes secured by the candidate whose seat has become vacant.

A by-election may be required if no candidate meets the threshold.

The official results of the 2025 snap election show that Aru received 527 votes, while the late Qetu secured 719 votes.

The required 70 percent threshold was 503 votes, meaning Aru exceeded the minimum by 24 votes. His total represented approximately 73.3 percent of Qetu’s votes.

Aru’s appointment makes him the second runner-up candidate to take up a parliamentary seat under this provision, following the earlier case involving the Epi constituency.

Electoral Commission Chairman Edward Kaltamat had explained that meeting the threshold alone was not enough for a formal declaration.

The required legal procedures, including notification of the vacancy by Parliament and preparation of the Instrument of Declaration by the Office of the Attorney General, had to be completed. Ambae recovery remains a key priority.

As Ambae’s new parliamentary representative, MP Aru takes office at a challenging time for the island and the wider PENAMA Province.

One of the key issues requiring attention is recovery from ashfall associated with Manaro Voui volcanic activity. Ashfall can damage food gardens, affect water supplies and disrupt the livelihoods of rural communities.

Aru will be expected to raise these concerns in Parliament and advocate for appropriate support for affected communities, particularly in restoring agricultural production and strengthening household food security.

His appointment also comes amid concerns following the MV Matui tragedy, adding to the challenges facing the province.

Aru’s new role will be important in ensuring that Ambae’s concerns are represented at the national level and that the needs of affected communities receive continued attention from the Government….PACNEWS

FIJI – CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM: FBC NEWS        PACNEWS 3: Tue 20 Oct 2026

2013 Constitution cannot be discarded: Fiji deputy PM Kamikamica

SUVA, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (FBC NEWS)—Fiji’s deputy Prime Minister and ;Minister for Commerce, Business and Industrial Development Manoa Kamikamica says the 2013 constitution simply cannot be discarded.

Speaking at the Constitution Amendment Bill consultation , Kamikamica stressed that the proposed amendments are aimed at addressing its shortcomings while retaining provisions that remain valuable to the country.

He said that the Supreme Court had recognised the legality of the 2013 Constitution, despite identifying a democratic deficit.

Kamikanmica said that the Constitution’s legal standing was reinforced by the fact that three general elections was held under its provisions.

Kamikamica said the Government had sought the Supreme Court’s advice on whether the Constitution could be amended by interpreting its provisions in a way that addressed its shortcomings, adding that Court had made it clear that while the 2013 Constitution was legal, there were defects that needed to be addressed.

“The legality of the 2013 constitution stems from the main fact that for three elections we held it under the 2013 constitution. That is why we cannot toss out the 2013 Constitution,” he saud

As stipulated in the Bill, the 2013 Constitution would be amended by repealing its provisions, except Chapter 10, and replacing them with new provisions.

However, Kamikamica said  government also intends to retain some of its positive features, including provisions relating to national identity and equal citizenry.

He stresses that the Bill would be refined before it was taken back to Parliament, ensuring the final version incorporated public feedback alongside provisions considered beneficial under the 2013 Constitution and proposals introduced in the 2026 amendments…PACNEWS

PNG – OBITUARY: ABC PACIFIC                  PACNEWS 3: Tue 20 Oct 2026

PNG’s con man ‘king’ Noah Musingku dies in his self-declared kingdom in Bougainville

BUKA, 20 OCTOBER 2206 (ABC PACIFIC)—One of the South Pacific’s most infamous con men, Noah Musingku, has died in his self-declared kingdom in the south of Bougainville in Papua New Guinea.

Musingku fleeced millions of dollars from people in PNG, Solomon Islands, Fiji, Australia and elsewhere from the late 1990s through his Ponzi scheme U-Vistract, before fleeing authorities to his hometown of Tonu where he declared himself King Peii II of Papaala.

A death notice posted on the Bougainville Independence Movement Facebook page said Musingku died last week from “an illness he has fought over for more than three weeks”.

A later post showed pictures of what was said to be his burial, with men dressed in military fatigues burying a coffin as a small crowd watched on.

“It’s confirmed,” said Timothy Masiu, the member for South Bougainville in PNG’s national parliament. 

“He died … and they kept his body for three days and then they decided to lay him to rest on Saturday.

“I am sad to hear of his passing because he is from my electorate and he was my schoolmate.

“His passing brings mixed feelings throughout Bougainville. Everybody has their own dreams and Noah had his dream and I think if he did it the right way, that dream would have come true for him.”

Musingku’s death brings to a close one of the region’s most extraordinary, high-profile financial scams.

He started U-Vistract in PNG’s capital Port Moresby in the late 1990s, promising investors 100 percent interest per month.

As with all successful Ponzi schemes the first investors did receive those returns and word spread prompting thousands more to hand over millions of dollars.

Musingku even managed to open a branch of his Royal Reserve Bank of Papaala near the headquarters of the Bank of PNG, the country’s central bank.

When authorities eventually moved to shut down his operation, he shifted to Solomon Islands before returning to his home village of Tonu, where he declared himself King Peii II and formed an armed militia to keep the law and disgruntled investors at bay.

Bougainvillean journalist Gorethy Kenneth invested in U-Vistract back in 1998 with money her parents had given her to pay university fees.

“I learned that he passed away and I said, ‘There goes my money,” she said.

But she also felt sadness on hearing of Musingku’s death after speaking to him recently about organising an interview.

“He sounded more like he needed to change his life, like he wanted to, but he didn’t know how to do it

“He needed help,” she said.

The notice that announced Musingku’s death also said, “All clients will be paid for all the investments they have invested in all our investment programmes.”

Anthony Regan, a constitutional lawyer at the Australian National University and a long-time adviser to the Autonomous Bougainville Government, said any investors hoping for a payout would be disappointed.

“The money’s all been eaten up and he never had large amounts of money,” Dr Regan said.

“Like any Ponzi scheme, you only have the revenue that you’re pulling in from investors and if you’re not paying out, the money doesn’t come in and he hasn’t been able to pay out really since the late 90s.”

Dr Regan has watched Musingku’s journey closely and said it was hard to predict what his followers in Tonu would do next and what would happen to the guns held by his militia.

“Nobody really knows outside what the leadership structures are, if any, and what continuity there will be,” Dr Regan said…. PACNEWS

FIJI – CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM: FIJI SUN    PACNEWS 3: Tue 20 Oct 2026

Fiji Constitutional Amendment Bill fails key tests, say legal commentators

SUVA, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—The Fiji Government’s proposed Constitution Amendment Bill fails the test of meaningful public participation and risks concentrating greater power in the hands of the executive, according to constitutional commentators Romitesh Kant and Mereoni Chung.

In an analysis published by International IDEA’s ConstitutionNet on Monday, the two argue that Bill 32 of 2026 falls short of the democratic and constitutional standards raised by the Supreme Court.

They say the Bill was substantially rewritten following public consultations, leaving Fijians only a fortnight to respond to the revised provisions.

“On the second, it repairs some deficits but leaves others intact and creates new ones: a constitution that the people cannot readily change, power that remains insufficiently checked, and immunity that expands rather than recedes,” they wrote.

The commentators argue that the fundamental issue is whether the proposed Constitution transfers power to ordinary citizens or further concentrates it among political and traditional institutions.

“A democratic constitution moves power down, towards voters, local communities, Parliament and bodies that can hold the government to account,” they wrote.

They contend that the proposed amendments move in the opposite direction, retaining significant authority within the executive, particularly the Prime Minister.

They also raise concerns about an appointed Senate and a Council of Chiefs that would have powers to select the President and veto constitutional changes.

Kant and Chung argue that while some authority would be transferred to customary institutions, much of it would involve powers over individuals rather than greater democratic empowerment.

The commentators have urged the Parliamentary Special Select Committee to accept the additional consultation time offered by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and conduct hearings beyond Viti Levu.

They also recommend publishing plain-language explanations of the Bill in English, iTaukei, Hindi and Rotuman.

Among their proposed changes are ending immunity in October 2014, removing the chastisement clause, restoring constitutional protections, retaining an independent anti-corruption institution and narrowing the Council of Chiefs’ veto powers.

They also call for referendum protections for core constitutional provisions and clarity over the rules governing the next general election.

The commentators say the referendum should be postponed until after the election, as proposed by the National Federation Party, if additional time is required for meaningful public consultation.

“The Court opened the door for Fijians to shape their Constitution ‘from time to time’. As drafted, the Bill gives them a fortnight to comment, a single vote to approve it, and then closes that door,” they wrote.

“That is not the constitutional repair the Court had in mind.”…..PACNEWS

UN – BIODIVERSITY: UN NEWS CENTRE         PACNEWS 3: Tue 20 Oct 2026

Protecting Earth’s fragile biodiversity takes spotlight at Armenia talks

YEREVAN, 20 0CTOBER 2026 (UN NEWS CENTRE)—Biodiversity losses continue to upend the lives of billions of people whose future prosperity depends on countries taking urgent action to protect our planet, the top UN official leading talks at the UN Biodiversity Conference in Yerevan, said on Monday.

The aim of the talks in the Armenian capital is to assess progress so far and build on an agreed blueprint for biodiversity protection known as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted four years ago.

“In 2022, 196 countries made commitments. But we are all accountable to each other and to future generations. What happens here in Yerevan matters. Billions of people whose lives are being upended by the impacts of biodiversity loss depend on progress being made here in the next two weeks,” said Executive Secretary of the UN Convention on Biodiversity, Astrid Schomaker.

Insisting that “taking action for nature does work”, Schomaker called for the “untapped energy and ideas” of Indigenous Peoples and local communities, women and youth to contribute to the decisions made at the talks. 

“We need even greater engagement from cities, businesses and financial institutions…the science is clear. No nation, no economy, no society is immune from the impacts of biodiversity loss,” she said.

The goals of the Convention include tackling the main drivers of biodiversity loss, including changes in how land and seas are used, the unsustainable exploitation of species, climate change, pollution and invasive species. 

Perhaps the Kunming-Montreal framework’s best-known ambition is “30 by 30”: conserving 30 percent of land and sea by 2030, the deadline for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

To do this, national action plans must align with international goals, finance must match current needs and consumption and production should be in accord with “the finite resources of our planet”, Schomaker maintained.

A core aim of the Yerevan talks – also known as COP17, or the 17th Conference Of Parties – is “to turn commitments into measurable progress on the ground”, insisted Armenia’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Paruyr Hovhannisyan.

“We want COP17 to send a clear political signal that addressing biodiversity loss requires coordinated action by governments, international organisations, the private sector and civil society,” he told UN News.

“This means strengthening implementation, mobilising adequate resources, and improving monitoring and accountability.”

Among the big issues governments will grapple with in Yerevan:

*Taking stock: Countries will conduct the very first global review of collective progress under the framework by presenting their national reports and updated national biodiversity strategies and action plans. This will show what has been achieved since 2022 and where faster action is needed. 

*Closing the implementation gap: The question is how to translate national targets and plans into measurable results on the ground.

*Finding the money: The framework calls for at least US$200 billion annually from all sources by 2030, including at least US$30 billion in international biodiversity finance, according to Armenia’s UN Ambassador Hovhannisyan.

*Making the Cali Fund work: This global financial mechanism established under the UN Convention on Biodiversity was agreed at COP16 in Cali, Colombia. Talks at Yerevan aim to advance practical arrangements for the fund, which was designed to collect funds from companies that use digital genetic data and redistribute these monies to protect biodiversity and Indigenous Peoples.

*Tracking progress: Better monitoring, data, capacity and cooperation are needed so countries can measure whether commitments are actually delivering results. 

*Changing the economics: Some of the areas furthest behind require action outside environment ministries, including on finance, business, sustainable consumption and harmful incentives.

The meeting follows warnings from UN chief António Guterres in Yerevan on Friday that more than one million species face extinction.

In his call for an end to the “war on nature”, the UN Secretary-General appealed to governments, business and communities to accelerate efforts to protect biodiversity for future generations.

“Every day, humankind saws another branch through the tree of life. Climate chaos, invasive species, overgrazing and overfishing, excessive fertilisers, pesticides, plastics and heavy metals, all these and more are driving the triple planetary crisis of pollution, biodiversity loss and climate chaos,” he said.

The UN chief warned that the world is edging ever closer towards becoming uninhabitable. But he also pointed to international biodiversity action agreed under the Kunming-Montreal Framework. 

It had inspired action worldwide, Guterres insisted, noting that since 2022, an additional 1.3 million square kilometres of land and six million square kilometres of ocean have received formal protection.

But “progress is uneven and far too slow” and countries risk falling “well short” of the goal of conserving 30 percent of the world’s land and sea by 2030, the UN chief said…..PACNEWS

PACNEWS BIZ

PAC – SKIILS TRADE: VANUATU DAILY POST       PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 20 Oct 2026

Skills competition brings Pacific nations together in Vanuatu

PORT VILA, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST)—Vanuatu has welcomed young skilled competitors from across the Pacific for the 2026 Vanuatu National Skills Competition and International Friendly Skills Competition, which opened in Port Vila  Monday.

Competitors from Timor-Leste, Fiji, Tonga, Tuvalu, Nauru and Kiribati have joined Vanuatu participants for the competition, which aims to promote practical skills, technical education and training opportunities for young people.

Chairman of the organising committee and Vanuatu Institute of Technology (VIT) Principal Wade Evans said the competition was an opportunity for young people to demonstrate how practical skills could contribute to national development and improve people’s lives.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Evans said the event was not only about the organisers but, more importantly, about the young people who had volunteered to represent their countries.

“This competition is something that we in the Pacific, we humanists, we young, we small countries, we can make a difference by excelling in skills,” he said.

He said the competition could inspire young people and communities to recognise the importance of skills in improving family livelihoods and creating opportunities for individuals.

Evans also acknowledged Timor-Leste for inspiring Vanuatu to organise its own international skills competition after a Vanuatu delegation participated in a similar event there earlier this year.

He thanked the organising committee, Pacific Australia Skills, the Ministry of Education and Training, Vanuatu Skills Partnership and Vanuatu Qualifications Authority for their support in bringing the event together.

The competition will also feature other activities during the week, including a fashion show on Tuesday, a panel discussion on Wednesday covering artificial intelligence, green skills and skills in schools, and a cultural performance by VIT students on Thursday.

Evans said the activities would demonstrate the connection between practical skills and culture, while giving visiting delegations opportunities to exchange experiences and build relationships.

Representing the Minister of Education and Training, Simil Johnson, newly elected Ambae Member of Parliament (MP) Howard Aru welcomed the international competitors and recognised the efforts of Vanuatu’s national participants.

MPAru said the competition provided an opportunity to celebrate the contribution skilled workers make to the country’s development.

He said the Government’s proposed 60:40 plan aimed to strengthen skills development within the national curriculum, with trials already under way at three schools.

Aru said Vanuatu needed skilled people who could build, install, maintain, produce and repair, as well as solve problems, manage businesses and introduce new ideas into their communities.

“Practical skills help families earn an income. Businesses improve their services,” he said.

He said technical and vocational education and training should be recognised as valuable pathways to further education, employment and business opportunities.

Aru also stressed the importance of preparing young people for changing workplace demands, including digital technologies, renewable energy and sustainable practices.

He said schools, training providers, employers and communities needed to work together to ensure young people received relevant training and opportunities to apply their skills.

Drawing on his own experience as a parent, Aru said he strongly believed in skills education after encouraging his son to pursue a skills-based pathway rather than a conventional academic route.

He said his son was now working with a company in Port Vila, and his friends had also become interested in skills training after seeing the pathway he had taken.

Aru said climate change challenges and the needs of local businesses would continue to create opportunities for skilled workers in Vanuatu.

He encouraged competitors to prepare carefully, work safely, manage their time and focus on the quality of their work, while respecting fellow competitors and learning from the experience.

He also called on employers and industry partners to continue supporting skills development and strengthening the connection between training institutions and the workplace.

The 2026 Vanuatu National Skills Competition and International Friendly Skills Competition was officially declared open by MP Aru.

The event is expected to provide a platform for competitors, trainers and visiting delegations to exchange knowledge, strengthen regional partnerships and promote the value of technical and vocational education across the Pacific….PACNEWS

FIJI – AGRICULTURE: FIJI SUN                     PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 20 Oct 2026

Israel opens door to more Fijian agriculture interns

SUVA, 20 0CTOBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Israel is keen to increase the number of Fijians participating in its agriculture internship programme.

Head of Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation (MASHAV) Ambassador Eynat Shlein said the partnership could strengthen Fiji’s agricultural sector, food security and economic opportunities.

She said she had urged Government officials to expand participation in the programme during recent meetings.

“We want to see more Fijians in the programme. I think this benefits everyone,” Shlein said.

The 11-month programme gives participants practical experience on Israeli farms, where farmers act as mentors throughout the growing cycle.

Interns work five days a week and attend academic lectures at a learning centre for at least eight hours each week.

MASHAV is currently working with Navuso, Tutu Rural Training Centre in Taveuni and Fiji National University. The programme has 50 confirmed participants, with Israel open to increasing that number.

Shlein said agricultural training could help improve production, diversify Fiji’s economy and create opportunities to export to overseas markets.

“Food security is on the top of the agenda for every meeting that I have with people around the world, including Fiji, so this programme provides tools for the future in order to enhance the economy, to raise production, it is also about the ability to export to other countries and to have a more diversified economy,” she said.

Eligibility criteria require applicants to be university agriculture students in their second year or above, or recent graduates aged 19 to 33.

Shlein said discussions also covered water harvesting, purification of contaminated water and technology for vegetable and dairy farming.

She identified potential areas for cooperation in water management, post-harvest methods, aquaculture and animal husbandry, alongside opportunities for Israeli companies to contribute technology and expertise under a bilateral memorandum of understanding signed two years ago.

She said possible water-sector projects were being discussed with the Water Authority of Fiji and the Asian Development Bank, although these had yet to materialise.

Meetings with the Ministry of Education covered teacher training, sustainable education and the possible installation of biogas kits in green schools.

Discussions with the Ministry of Women and Social Protection focused on community resilience and programmes tailored for Fiji. A training initiative to empower women through entrepreneurship support for small and medium-sized enterprises was also planned.

Shlein said talks with the Ministry of Health included opportunities for Fijian scholars to join postgraduate programmes at Israeli universities and access scholarships.

Cooperation on climate change adaptation was also being considered, with a possible visit by Israeli experts in the near future….PACNEWS

AUST – AIRLINE: QANTAS                           PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 20 Oct 2026

Qantas launches major sale to Fiji, Vanuatu, Palau

SYDNEY, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (QANTAS)—Qantas has announced a huge sale to eight island destinations, including Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa, Norfolk Island, and New Caledonia.

Tickets start at $579(US$404), with 180,000 discounted seats available from today for just a week.

Cam Wallace, Qantas International’s CEO, said the Pacific has always been a “favourite escape” for Australians.

“From a winter break on Norfolk Island and a week in Fiji to diving in Palau and Vanuatu, there’s something here for every kind of island getaway, whether it’s a couples’ escape, a family holiday or a trip with friends,” Cam said.

“With travel dates through to September 2027, it’s a great chance to lock in a break for the year ahead.”

Other destinations include Tonga, Solomon Islands and Palau, with all the destinations only a few hours away from Australia.

Aussies have been heading to the region in record numbers, with 430,000 trips to Fiji taken in the last financial year — a five percent increase on the year before.

Meanwhile, Aussies are one of Vanuatu’s biggest visitors.

The sale fares are for travel between November 2026 and September 2027, with all tickets including checked baggage, complimentary food and drink, and in-flight entertainment…..PACNEWS

PACNEWS DIGEST

The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS

A Changing Climate, a Changing Market: The Outlook for Pacific Exports to Europe: PTI Europe

GENEVA, 20 OCTOBER 2206 (PTI EUROPE) —September can feel like the start of a new year in Europe, as businesses return from their summer break to refresh their strategies and review their budgets and sourcing.

This year, many European businesses are responding to a summer that has reminded us of the growing impact of climate change. Heatwaves, drought and fires have affected many areas, placing pressure on agricultural production and raising concerns about the resilience of food systems and supply chains. At the same time, Pacific Island countries are looking ahead to an El Niño event, with concerns around drought, food security and disruptions to agriculture and fisheries.

Although separated by thousands of kilometres, Europe and the Pacific are confronting a similar challenge: how to build resilient businesses in an increasingly unpredictable climate.

A challenging operating environment

Many Pacific economies remain highly dependent on imports of fuel, food and manufactured goods. When global markets become volatile, Pacific businesses often feel the effects quickly through higher fuel and transport costs and increased prices for imported inputs.

The prospect of another El Niño event adds uncertainty. Previous El Niño periods have brought drought conditions, water shortages and reduced agricultural productivity. For exporters of cocoa, coffee, coconut products and other agricultural commodities, climate variability can affect production volumes, quality and the ability to meet delivery schedules.

Fisheries are also affected. Changes in ocean conditions can influence the movement and distribution of commercially important fish stocks, creating additional uncertainty for businesses that depend on marine resources.

The result is a business environment where resilience is just as important as efficiency.

Climate risk is business risk

This is a reality that European buyers are beginning to understand more clearly. Following successive years of extreme weather, businesses are paying greater attention to supply chain resilience and long-term reliability. Purchasing decisions are no longer based solely on price and quality. Buyers are also asking whether suppliers can continue delivering when conditions become more challenging. For Pacific exporters, this shift may create an advantage.

Value, relationships and stories

The Pacific’s competitive advantage is value, authenticity and trusted relationships. European consumers continue to seek distinctive products with clear provenance and compelling stories. This creates opportunities for sectors such as specialty coffee, premium cocoa, coconut products, seafood, natural ingredients and wellness products.

Cocoa demonstrates the opportunity. Recent global supply disruptions have encouraged manufacturers to reconsider concentrated sourcing models and attach greater importance to reliability, consistent quality and traceability. Pacific cocoa accounts for only a small share of global output, but its distinctive origins and smallholder production systems make it well suited to premium markets.

Rise Beyond the Reef is a business that works with women artisans across Fiji to transform traditional craftsmanship into sustainable income opportunities through the production and sales of unique handcrafted lifestyle and homeware products.

One of the founders of Rise Beyond the Reef, Janet Lotawa points out, “When we talk about resilience and safeguarding vulnerable communities, we also have to talk about opportunity. How do we move beyond repeatedly responding to vulnerability and instead create economic opportunities that allow people to build resilience themselves?

“For many of the communities we work alongside, opportunity may be their best form of climate resilience. That’s the perspective we hope makes its way from the ground in the Pacific into the rooms where the world’s climate commitments are being shaped.”

Looking ahead

As European businesses revisit their planning, the outlook for Pacific-Europe trade is shaped by both uncertainty and opportunity. Climate events, geopolitical tensions and rising costs will continue to create pressures for businesses on both sides of the globe.

Yet these same pressures are increasing demand for resilient suppliers, transparent supply chains and high-quality products with authentic origins, where Pacific exporters are well placed to compete. In a world facing growing uncertainty, Pacific exporters may find themselves under pressure or well positioned…. PACNEWS

PACNEWS DIGEST

The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS

 Conservation that Lasts: Kup reforestation restores forests in Papua New Guinea

PORT MORESBY, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (IUCN)—As the Kup community in the country’s highlands region grapples with natural habitat loss and land degradation, a reforestation project started by one of their own in 1999 is reviving local ecosystems with support from the Kiwa Initiative. 

More than 25 years ago, Pastor (Ps) Peter Temin Dree saw how human activity was contributing to the decline in forest areas within the Kup Local Level Government (LLG) area of Kerowagi District, Simbu Province where he called home. Overharvesting timber and clearing land for agriculture were providing for people’s needs but depleting natural resources. Tribal conflicts among clans were causing bushfires leading to the destruction of trees and vegetation.

To turn the tide and help restore what had been lost, Ps Peter founded Kup Reforestation. With limited knowledge, he set up his own nursery, raising seedlings to plant and share with neighbouring tribes. Despite a lack of interest within Papua New Guinea to fund his work, Ps Peter remained committed to the project and its mission.

Eventually, Kup Reforestation secured an opportunity to partner with the Kiwa Initiative, a multi-donor grants program funding climate resilience, Nature-based Solutions projects across the Pacific. In July 2025, project implementation in Kup officially commenced. 

As part of this project, Ps Peter and the Kup team work to propagate trees and plants and train others to do the same. They distribute seedlings to individual tree planters and family units and identify areas to reforest. The community in Kup – from women, youths, teachers, school children, local leaders, and churches – are getting involved. Ps Peter says the project is a truly “community-led initiative”.

“They see the effects of climate change on their livelihood, food, and health,” he explains.

“Like the heavy rainfall, droughts, landslides, and soil erosion and because of that they take ownership of the project, implement and benefit from it.”

Since implementation began, a nursery facility and training centre have been built to support the production of native tree seedlings for reforestation. Around 80,000 sapling trees are being transplanted across 150 hectares to restore degraded lands and improve biodiversity. Vegetation and habitat mapping is underway across 2000 hectares in support of the establishment of a formal conservation area. 

“Trees are now growing, bringing the environment back to where it once was,” Ps Peter says.

Hands-on skills development in plant propagation and nursery management is also being carried out, strengthening peer-to-peer learning and knowledge sharing. 

Undertaking a reforestation project of this scale, though, has its challenges. Transporting tree seedlings in large quantities can be a difficult task for the team. There are also growing requests to replicate activities in other communities. Constant network problems make communication with donors and partners a significant hurdle. Watering seedlings during an El Niño dry spell is another major challenge. Bushfires meanwhile continue to threaten existing and restored habitats.

Ps Peter believes strengthening conservation awareness among community members and receiving mentorship and guidance from Kiwa Initiative partners are helping to address some of these issues and bridge implementation and monitoring gaps. 

“Kiwa’s support on this project is something new to me,” he explains. “Exchanging of knowledge with grantees along with the site visits by Kiwa are new for me and the project members but they are helping Kup Reforestation and project activities prosper and reach more people.” 

Ps Peter hopes that as implementation progresses and ecosystems are restored, the Kup project and the Kiwa Initiative will be known and seen far and wide – and inspire more meaningful conservation work for many years to come. 

“Our legacy will be every plant that we grow and hectares of natural forest we conserve. It will be there for generations to witness and hear about,” he says.

“Communities will take charge and lead the project and engage with every Kup Reforestation activity we implement in the future.”

The Kup Reforestation project is implemented with the financial support of the European Union, Agence Française de Développement, Global Affairs Canada, Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, as part of the Kiwa Initiative framework….PACNEWS