Oceania

Palau abstained from a UN vote on a resolution on Russian aggression in Ukraine, focused on cooperation with the Council of Europe; in February, Palau had aligned with the US voting against another resolution condemning Russia’s aggression against Ukraine

The Rigo women in Agriculture suggested creating a market spot dedicated to the cooperatives selling in the city: a fundamental contribution to residents' healthy food supply, their fresh produce is now limitedly offered due to a lack of physical space

Appealing activities, interesting culture and natural environment are very attractive for tourists, but visitors said shortfalls in public facilities and services were unappealing, according to a new Tonga International Visitor Survey released this month

The aerial shooting of over 700 koalas in Budj Bim National Park in Victoria's west has begun; authorities claim they made the decision out of humane reasons, as the animals were dehydrated by a recent fire, the local community was horrified at the plan

The Diocese of Tarawa and Nauru have joined all dioceses around the world ringing their church bells 88 times to honor the years of the Holy Father Pope Francis on this earth

The World Bank has committed US$7 million in new grants to support Tuvalu's financial management of and resilience to climate-related disasters, second and last of two operations aimed at mitigating climate impacts and strengthening disaster preparedness

The annual Secondary School Practicum Program has been launched: the practice provides hands-on experience to 357 students across ministries, agencies and private sector companies in Majuro, Wotje, Jaluit, Ebeye, and Enniburr, Kwajalein

Border security has been tightened in a direct response to growing concerns about foreign criminal activity, not specified; the measure resulted in an 88% denial rate for Chinese visa applications according to Tia Belau Newspaper

A plane loaded with asylum seekers landed in Nauru; they had landed in crocodile-filled waters north of Broome in Western Australia, evading authorities

A first-of-its-kind Data Protection Bill was passed during its first reading in parliament; the bill's author, Alexander Teabo told RNZ Pacific that protecting public information is the aim of his proposal, and the bill will protect the people

Hiri Moale Festival, an annual, week-long celebration of traditions and heritage of the Motu Koitabu culture, concluded this weekend; ax extended program offered this year canoe sailing and the rain on the grand finale did not discourage participants

1.991 students have successfully completed micro qualifications with Pacific PolyTech, most are working: quality hands-on technical education is successfully addressing the skills gaps faced in Fiji while providing employment to locals, especially youths

A 9,29% power tariff increase, approved by Energy Commission, came into effect on 1 April 2025