Author: TMC Palau

Overview: Pacific peace advocates are urging leaders to resist growing military competition in the region following China’s recent missile test and ongoing U.S.-led war exercises across the Indo-Pacific. The Pacific Regional Non-Governmental Organisations Alliance says the Blue Pacific should remain a zone of peace—not a proving ground for global powers. SUVA/HAGATNA, 14 JULY 2026 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — An alliance of peace organisations has called on Pacific Island leaders to oppose missile tests and military exercises in the region, which is increasingly becoming a theater for geopolitical competition among the world’s superpowers.  “The Pacific Ocean is far more than a…

[Photo: iTaukei Land Trust Board / FACEBOOK] The dispute over the future of the Vatulele Island Resort has taken a new turn, with the resort leaseholder rejecting claims by landowners that the lease should be terminated and the land returned. Earlier this week, representatives of the Vatulele landowning unit met Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, calling for the return of land leased to Jay Singh Hotels Pte Ltd, claiming there had been no development since the lease was granted. Village representative Joeli Tukana says the resort site remains undeveloped for years and alleges that the lease was extended for another five…

Round Three of the Vodafone Vanua Championship delivered several closely contested encounters across the country today, with Macuata, Ra, Northland, Serua and Ovalau emerging victorious in the senior competition. At Ratu Ganilau Park, Macuata edged Cakaudrove 22-20 in one of the day’s most competitive matches, while Vatukoula and Tavua could not be separated after playing out a 20-all draw at Theodore Park. Ra secured a narrow 15-12 win over Northern Bulls at Narauyaba Sports Ground, continuing their strong start to the competition. Northland recorded a comfortable 18-3 victory over Coastland at Ratu Cakobau Park, while Serua held off Nasinu 15-10…

[Photo: FILE] France and Fiji are strengthening their cultural partnership through the “Fiji 1838: Face to Face” exhibition, which showcases rare historical drawings that offer a unique glimpse into Fiji’s past. Speaking at the opening, French Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Benjamin Delannoy highlighted that the exhibition symbolizes the strong friendship and growing cultural partnership between the two countries. He adds that while France and Fiji collaborate on climate change, biodiversity and regional issues, cultural cooperation is equally important in strengthening ties between their people. Delannoy says the exhibition features nearly 200-year-old drawings created during an 1838 French expedition to Fiji, many…

Overview: Climate change remains at the center of Pacific priorities as leaders prepare for the 55th Pacific Islands Forum in Palau, but the regional conversation is shifting. After decades of urging the world to recognize the severity of the crisis, Pacific leaders are now calling for accountability, accessible climate financing and action on existing international commitments. With rising seas, stronger storms, ocean warming and threats to food, water and livelihoods affecting communities across the region, leaders are expected to push for stronger implementation of climate agreements and greater support for vulnerable island nations. By Ngeldei Tulop KOROR, Palau — As…

[Source: Scottish Rugby/ Facebook] Fiji’s final Nations Championship pool match against Scotland this weekend arrives at a fascinating moment for both teams. On paper, Scotland enter as favourites. In reality, there are enough storylines and recent trends to suggest this could be much tighter than many expect. Fiji have endured a brutal start to the competition. They opened with a 39-24 defeat to Wales before suffering a crushing 73-8 loss to England. Those two results leave them winless and with significant questions around their defensive structure and discipline. Scotland’s campaign has been more encouraging. Gregor Townsend’s men produced an impressive…

Protesters scuffle with police during a demonstration against U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies and the visit of U.S. Ambassador to Italy Tilman Fertitta, in Venice, Italy. [Photo Credit: Reuters] A few hundred people in Venice protested on Friday against U.S. Ambassador to Italy Tilman Fertitta as he arrived in the ​lagoon city aboard his superyacht, drawing criticism of President Donald Trump’s policies. Activists also objected to ‌the heightened security measures put in place by local authorities as Venice prepares for one of its most important festivals. Fertitta, a billionaire businessman appointed by Trump, is touring the Italian peninsula aboard his…

[Source: Fijian Drua/ Facebook] The McDonald’s Fijian Drua Women has created history as they’ll host the Super Rugby W final for the first time next week in either Lautoka or Ba. This is after their 31-5 semifinal win over the Queensland Reds in Lautoka today. The Reds beat the Drua in the semifinals last year. The Drua Women will feature in its fourth final in five years since joining the competition in 2022. They won the Super W titles in 2022,2023, runners up in 2024 and semifinalist last year.Article continues after advertisement Despite a shaky start today, the home side…

Overview: Pacific leaders are emphasizing regional unity and Pacific-led decision-making as geopolitical competition intensifies across Oceania. With growing engagement from major powers, including China, the United States, Australia, Japan and New Zealand, Pacific nations are reaffirming the importance of sovereignty, cooperation and the principles outlined in the Pacific Islands Forum’s 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. As leaders prepare for upcoming Forum discussions, maintaining a united regional voice remains central to addressing climate change, maritime security, economic development and emerging challenges. By Ngeldei Tulop  KOROR, Palau — The Pacific has increasingly become a region of strategic interest for major…

[Source: File] Dayal’s Sawmillers Ba FC will have an opportunity to avenge its BiC Fiji FACT final defeat when it hosts Prithvi Navua FC in Round 14 of the Extra Premier League at the 4R Stadium at Govind Park on Sunday. The Men in Black head into the clash on the back of a 2-1 win over Suva and remain firmly in the hunt for the league title as they continue to chase leaders Labasa. Navua, meanwhile, arrives with momentum of its own after edging Lautoka 2-1 in the previous round and will be eager to continue its strong run…