PNG Haus Bung

The United States, Denmark and Greenland have entered into an agreement for the US to develop a significant military presence on Greenland, while prohibiting US adversaries from building their own bases on the island, Donald Trump said on Friday (all times local).In a Truth Social post, the US president wrote that no US enemies would be able to make sensitive investments on the island without the approval of the United States and that the agreement had no expiry date."At my direction, we worked with representatives of Denmark and Greenland to guarantee that the United States will FOREVER have the complete ability to do what is necessary in Greenland in order to secure and defend the security of Greenland, and the United States of America," Trump wrote.Earlier on Friday, Reuters exclusively reported that the US and Greenland were closing in on a deal that would result in an increased US military presence, but would stop well short of Trump'slong-held dream of acquiring the island for the United States.Trump's Friday announcement suggests he was nonetheless pleased with the outcome of the negotiations, and that he may not revive his territorial claims, at least in the near future. He said, without elaborating, that the US would soon be rolling out a large military presence on the island, which already hosts oneSpace Force base in its remote northwest."This is a dream come true for the United States of America," Trump wrote.The Danish prime minister's office said on Friday that the agreement would strengthen North Atlantic and Arctic security.Rubio says deal addresses security concernsMuch was unclear as of Friday night, including whether any new US bases would be constructed as a result of the agreement. Trump's Truth Social posts about negotiations or agreements often lack context or specifics.The US already has nearly total overflight and basing rights in Greenland due to a1951 treaty.It was also unclear how the agreement would be received in Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark. The island's residents aspire to independence and have bristled at US attempts to assert hegemony.In a separate statement, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the deal "permanently and completely" addressed Washington's national security concerns with respect to the island."Greenland will forever be part of the strategic defence area of North America and exclude any adversary from it and the surrounding area," he wrote.A State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss specific terms, said the deal prohibits non-NATO countries from building a base in Greenland, and will allow only the US and its allies to make unspecified "sensitive investments". The official said the agreement grants the US permanent access, basing and overflight rights, and would continue to apply even if Greenland becomes independent.- Reuters/ Source: RNZ News

Award-winning textile designer Atosh Iyaro makes her return to the PNG Fashion Week runway this September, following her successful international debut at Paradise Runway in Brisbane, Australia.Iyaro is among the elite Papua New Guinean designers selected to showcase at PNG Fashion Week 2026, which will be held starting tonight from 18 to 19 September at APEC Haus in Port Moresby.Her return marks another significant milestone in a steadily growing career defined by artistic talent, cultural pride, and remarkable consistency.On 1 August 2026, Iyaro presented her collection to an international audience at Paradise Runway, PNG Fashion Week’s premier global platform in Brisbane.The appearance formally introduced her work to the Australian market and demonstrated the strength of contemporary Papua New Guinean textile and fashion design beyond the country’s borders.For Iyaro, the international showcase represents the natural continuation of a creative journey that began in childhood.Born in Goroka and raised in Port Moresby, Iyaro is a proud Eastern Highlander from Hotogo village in the Fayantina Local Level Government area of Henganofi District.She belongs to the Omisaro clan, whose ancestors were traditional landowners and respected chiefs of the area.Her deep connection to culture was shaped by annual family visits to Goroka, where she spent time with her grandparents, learned to speak her language fluently, and developed a rich understanding of her customs and identity.Fashion was a central theme throughout her upbringing.Iyaro’s father, a renowned designer himself, took her to fashion shows and introduced her to the intricate work that happens behind the runway, from preparing collections to dressing models.Some of her earliest fashion memories include attending Miss Papua New Guinea pageants in the early 1990s, experiences that sparked a lifelong passion for art, textiles, and cultural expression.Iyaro’s artistic ability became evident during her school years, where she earned several awards for her artwork.While in Grade 12, she created her first major textile design, SeaWorld, which remains one of her signature prints today.She later pursued studies at the University of Papua New Guinea’s School of Art. Although she did not complete the formal program, she continued refining her craft through independent experimentation, cultural immersion, local markets, festivals, and hands-on practice.Today, Iyaro is widely recognized as an exceptional textile printer whose bold and distinctive prints transform fabric into a dynamic canvas for Papua New Guinean storytelling.Her work draws inspiration from the vibrant colours, patterns, and visual identities of communities across the nation.Rather than treating heritage merely as surface decoration, she utilizes contemporary fashion to communicate identity, history, and pride.She strongly believes that innovation does not require designers to leave tradition behind, viewing contemporary design instead as a vital medium to keep cultural knowledge alive and relevant for future generations.A major turning point in her creative path occurred in 2018 when she attended the Festival of Arts and Culture in Honiara, Solomon Islands, as a featured fashion designer.The event exposed her to the wider Pacific creative community and solidified her realization that fashion could become a dedicated life calling.She subsequently made her PNG Fashion Week runway debut in 2023, presenting a bold, traditionally inspired design constructed from plain tapa cloth and grass skirts.That same year, she was honored with the prestigious SP Textile Designer of the Year award, recognizing the exceptional quality of her textile printing and the narrative depth expressed through her collections.Iyaro returned to the PNG Fashion Week platform in 2024, continuing to refine and strengthen her creative identity with every appearance.Her ongoing progress highlights the crucial role of providing local designers with consistent platforms to develop, experiment, and build confidence as artists.Behind her professional achievements lies a compelling story of personal discipline. Iyaro balances her design career with full-time employment while raising three children.Crafting new collections while managing work and family responsibilities requires substantial sacrifice, and the financial demands of participating in major fashion events have occasionally tempted her to step away from the industry.However, her enduring passion for design, her dedication to promoting Papua New Guinea, and the steadfast support of her family keep her moving forward.Her mother remains one of her key partners, regularly assisting behind the scenes with tailoring and alterations.Iyaro credits both of her parents with instilling the core values of respect, hard work, humility, and integrity that guide her daily life.Today, her children serve as her primary motivation; through her example, she aims to teach them to stay rooted in their heritage and stand proud in their Papua New Guinean identity.PNG Fashion Week Founder and Managing Director Philma Kelegai noted that Iyaro’s trajectory illustrates the immense value of long-term investment in local talent.“Atosh is one of the most consistent designers we have worked with. She continues to show up, grow and give everything to her craft.”“She is an incredible textile printer, but what makes her especially powerful is the way she combines artistic talent with humility, discipline and a genuine love for Papua New Guinea.”“Watching her progress from an emerging designer at PNG Fashion Week to an award winner and now an international designer has been incredibly rewarding.”“This is exactly why platforms such as PNG Fashion Week and Paradise Runway exist- to help our designers develop locally and create pathways for them internationally.”Iyaro’s upcoming showcase at PNG Fashion Week 2026 offers audiences the chance to experience the next chapter of her artistic evolution.Her journey- from creating SeaWorld as a high school student to representing Papua New Guinea on international runways- stands as a clear testament to what can be accomplished when natural talent is paired with resilience, family support, and unwavering dedication.PNG Fashion Week 2026 takes place starting tonight Friday, 18 September and tomorrow, Saturday, 19 September at APEC Haus in Port Moresby.

Papua New Guinea is calling for a fundamental shift in the global tuna industry’s economic relationship with Pacific nations fromextraction to equitable partnership—as the 19th INFOFISH World Tuna Trade Conference and Exhibition (Tuna 2026) gets underway in Bangkok.Speaking at the conference, Honorable Jelta Wong, Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources said the Pacific region is ready to transition frombeing suppliers of raw materials to active participants across the full tuna value chain.“You call them 'Small Island Nations.' We prefer 'Large Ocean States,'” Minister Wong stated. “We are custodians of nearly one third of the Earth’s surface.""The Pacific contributes over 50 percent of the world’s tuna supply, and scientific assessments confirm that key tuna stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO)remain biologically healthy.”From Custodianship to Economic Participation, Minister Wong emphasized that the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent positions the region to move beyond harvesting and into processing, logistics, marketing, innovation, and trade.He noted that currently, only 15 percent of tuna caught in Pacific waters is processed within the region.To address this, PNG has launched the East New Britain initiative (ENBi) to create a network of regional tuna hubs, and Fisheries Capital Limited (FCL) to drive onshore investment in downstream processing, infrastructure, and employment.The Minister also highlighted PNG’s partnership with the Iceland Innovation Cluster to achieve 100 percent utilization of fish resources, and thedeployment of satellite and AI technologies to combat Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.Addressing development partners, Minister Wong said capacity building must be centred on infrastructure, technology, and market access that allows Pacific nations to meet international standards.“For decades, developed industrial economies have captured much of the value generated from our ocean resources. The Pacific has borne the custodial responsibility, while others have accrued the economic dividends.""We now seek a recalibration, a new paradigm of shared prosperity. The Pacific collectively asserts its right to participate equitably in the value we steward."Mninister Wong added that it is not a request for concession, however it is a call for partnership, for fairness, and for the rightful distribution of benefits derived from the resources of our Blue Pacific Continent.Minister Wong concluded by inviting all industry and government stakeholders to the 10th Pacific Tuna Forum to be held in Port Moresby in October 2027.“Let us be the generation that not only sustains our tuna stocks but ensures the prosperity they generate is shared among those who own, protect, and depend on them. The Pacific is ready.”

TISA Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to bringing banking services closer to underserved and remote communities through its continued support of the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) and its financial inclusion programs across Papua New Guinea.TISA Bank recently joined CEFI and the Bank of Papua New Guinea for the Financial Inclusion and Currency Awareness Program conducted from 17 to 21 August 2026 in Amazon Bay LLG, Abau District, Central Province, together with other participating financial institutions.A key milestone for TISA Bank was the launch of agency banking services at Kurere Asiaro Village, giving communities greater access to formal banking services without having to travel long distances to major centers. Tony Mwayawa was appointed as a TISA Bank agent for the area, extending the Bank's reach into a community where access to traditional banking infrastructure remains limited.The banking agents were officially launched by Bank of Papua New Guinea Governor Ms. Elizabeth Genia. TISA Bank Chief Executive Officer Luke Kaul said the initiative reflects the Bank's commitment to addressing one of the most significant barriers to financial inclusion in Papua New Guinea: access. “For many Papua New Guineans, access to banking is still determined by where they live. In remote communities, something as simple as making a deposit, withdrawing money or opening an account can require significant travel, time and cost.”“We believe banking has to move closer to our people. This is why agency banking is an important part of our strategy and why we continue to support the work of CEFI and the Bank of Papua New Guinea in extending financial services to communities that have traditionally been underserved,” Mr. Kaul adds.At TISA Bank, Banking on Change means making banking more accessible, practical and relevant to the everyday lives of Papua New Guineans. We want to reach people where traditional banking may not ordinarily reach and give more communities the opportunity to participate in the formal financial system.The Amazon Bay program combines financial literacy, currency awareness, bank account opening, product awareness and agency banking, providing communities with both financial knowledge and practical access to formal banking services. Across two programs conducted in Amazon Bay in July and August 2026, more than 600 people received financial literacy training, and more than 1,000 bank accounts were opened across participating financial institutions. TISA Bank officers supported account-opening and banking awareness activities throughout the program, helping community members understand available banking services and take practical steps towards entering the formal financial system. TISA Bank Head of Agency Banking Ei Thu Thu Myint Myat also participated in financial literacy graduation activities and engaged with students and communities during the outreach.For TISA Bank, agency banking forms part of a broader effort to extend banking services beyond traditional branches and bring access closer to communities.Mr. Kaul said reaching the underbanked requires financial institutions to look beyond conventional banking models and respond to the realities faced by communities across Papua New Guinea.“Financial inclusion is ultimately about giving people access to services that can improve the way they manage their money, support their families and participate in economic opportunities. We commend CEFI for continuing to take financial literacy and financial services directly into communities. TISA Bank is proud to support this work, and we remain committed to reaching more Papua New Guineans, particularly in areas where access to banking has historically been limited.”The August program followed an earlier outreach conducted in Amazon Bay from 7 to 10 Jul2026 and responded to strong community demand for further financial literacy training and improved access to banking services.TISA Bank will continue working with CEFI, the Bank of Papua New Guinea and relevant stakeholders to support initiatives that improve financial literacy, expand participation in the formal financial system and bring banking closer to communities across Papua New Guinea

Forty female students from Tokarara, Marianville and Gordons Secondary Schools graduated from the RISE Empowerment Program at the Gateway Hotel on Saturday 12 September 2026.The six-month program focused on personal development, career readiness, and leadership.Through six structured phases, the students developed skills in self-leadership, communication, goal setting, career exploration, health and wellbeing, and community impact.Following a successful pilot involving 20 students from Tokarara Secondary School, RISE expanded in 2026 to include students from Marienville and Gordons Secondary Schools, doubling the number of mentees participating in the program.CPL Foundation Inc. and the Sir Brian Bell Foundation supported the program as lead sponsors. CPL Foundation contributed K182,899.87 towards program delivery, management, workshops and in-school support initiatives.This support benefited the 40 mentees and 20 mentors involved in the program and enabled RISE to extend its impact through its School Support Project and wider community outreach activities. Sir Mahesh Patel, OBE, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of CPL Group, shared a prerecorded message with the graduating cohort.“CPL Foundation has been proud to support RISE from the very beginning. We saw in RISE a strong reflection of our values, particularly our belief that when young people are given opportunity, encouragement and the right support, they can achieve remarkable things.“Our commitment has always been about more than providing financial support. It is about investing in young people like you and in the future of Papua New Guinea,” Sir Mahesh said.In her remarks, Michelle Pillay, Founder and Director of RISE, acknowledged CPL Foundation’s contribution, saying: “Thank you, CPL Foundation, for your unwavering support. You are helping to create something far greater than a single program.""Thank you for believing in our vision and the lasting impact it continues to have on our communities.”

The Kokonas Indastri Koporesen (KIK) has officially cleared a monumental milestone in its long-standing quest to establish a permanent home,following a rigorous procurement process initiated since November 2024.KIK has been awarded a Certificate of Compliance by the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Office, signed off by the Secretary of Finance Mr. Samuel Penias and the Chief Executive Officer of the PPP Center Mr. Raula Galewa.The KIK Managing Director, Mr. Alan Aku speaking on behalf of the Board, Management, and staff said, this historic regulatory approval paves the way for KIK and its selected private developer to construct a landmark 23-story, state-of-the-art office building at its prime location on Cuthbertson Street, downtown Port Moresby. Under the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) framework, the developer will finance and construct the tower, operating it for a 15-year period before full ownership of the modern asset is returned entirely to KIK.For years, KIK’s vision for a dedicated headquarters faced severe bottlenecks. The institution endured a long cycle of failed government Public Investment Program (PIP) submissions and countless unsuccessful funding requests from successive governments. Refusing to let budgetary constraints stall progress, KIK leadership pivoted toward innovative financing, aligning with the national government's push for private-sector collaboration through the PPP framework.The rigorous selection process, which began nearly two years ago, adhered to the highest standards of transparency, governance, and commercial viability required by the PPP Centre. Receiving the Certificate of Compliance validates KIK’s strategic vision and confirms that the project delivers immense value for money to the public and the state.The Marape-Rosso Government’s support has been instrumental in enabling KIK to progress this landmark development. Located in downtown Port Moresby, the 23-storey, multimillion-kina Coconut Tower represents a significant investment in the future of KIK and the coconut industry.The new headquarters will provide KIK with a modern, permanent base to strengthen its operations, support industry development, and better serve the coconut stakeholders and community.As a high-value commercial asset, the development will also strengthen KIK’s long-term financial sustainability, allowing future revenues to be reinvested into its programs, including initiatives to support coconut growers and expand downstream processing. The project therefore represents not only a new headquarters for KIK, but a strategic investment in the continued growth and sustainability of the coconut industry.KIK is indebted to the undivided support of the Agriculture Minister Hon. John Boito and the Prime Minister Hon. James Marape in allowing KIK’s PPP proposal to be deliberated and signed off by the National Executive Council in August 2025.Groundbreaking timelines and further architectural details of the 23-story building development will be officially announced by KIK and the development partners in the coming weeks.

The National Cultural Commission (NCC) marked Papua New Guinea’s 51st Independence Anniversary on Tuesday, Sept. 15, with the presentation of new uniforms to officers and staff and a cake-cutting ceremony at its head office in Monian Building, downtown Port Moresby.The celebration brought together NCC staff and personnels from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to recognize the commission’s role in protecting and promoting Papua New Guinea’s cultural heritage.NCC Deputy Board Chairman Professor Leo Marai commended the commission’s leadership and staff for their work during 2026.“I am impressed that NCC has come this far with many things being done, and work is still in progress as we reach 51 years of Independence,” Marai said.He also commended Executive Director Steven Enomb Kilanda, executive management, line managers and staff for what he described as a fruitful year.According to the NCC, recent work has included renovations at cultural institutions, the commissioning of community cultural centers in rural districts, support for creative arts and local music industries, and partnerships with provincial and regional governments to support traditional cultural shows.The commission operates under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and is responsible for the protection and promotion of Papua New Guinea’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage.The NCC said communities across the country remain central to preserving indigenous traditions through local festivals, cultural activities and other community-based events.It also said it remains focused on documenting Papua New Guinea’s languages, arts and customs for future generations while recognising culture’s contribution to tourism, community identity and economic activity.The NCC Board, management and staff extended their Independence Anniversary wishes to Papua New Guineans and their families.

The 51st Independence Day celebration in Nipa, Southern Highlands Province (SHP) saw a major gun surrender event that took place witnessed by the Governor William Powi, and the police.A total of 19 firearms and ammunition were surrendered to the State under the National Gun Amnesty and Surrender Program at Nipa Station, Nipa Kutubu District yesterday. Southern Highlands Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Chief Inspector Kelly Sombe, said the firearms were surrendered by the people from Semin and Upper Nipa areas. He said other wards and LLGs are in support and are expected to surrender the firearms as well.PPC Sombe said the gun surrender program was witnessed by the Governor Honourable William Powi, Provincial Administrator David Kelma, his deputies, security personnel, local leaders and the general public.PPC whilst witnessing the gun surrender ceremony told the people of Nipa Kutubu that law enforcers will not have mercy on those who do not surrender firearms and continue to keep them.PPC confirmed that the following firearms were surrendered by the people from both Semin and Upper Nipa.1×M58 Sub Machine Gun3×Bush Masters1×SLR Rifle1×Galil Rifle4×Mark IV Rifles2×Pump Action1×M16 Rifle1×AK 47 Rifle2×Single Shot Guns3×Homemade GunsPPC Sombe however said that he has also conducted the Gun Amnesty awareness in the Eastern End part of Imbongu, Ialibu/Pangia and Kagua/Erave last week and some prominent leaders and businessmen have surrendered their illegal firearms.PPC said many more people are willing to surrender their firearms as well. He said the Gun Amnesty awareness would also be conducted in Upper Mendi, on Friday 18th, Mendi town on Monday 21st, Poroma and Kutubu on Tuesday 22nd September 2026.PPC Sombe was happy with the response from people on the Gun Amnesty awareness program. He said people are willing to surrender their illegal firearms, and that is a positive approach for the province ahead of the 2027National General Election.Meanwhile, Governor Powi commended the people for taking lead in the province to hand over the guns and making the communities safer.

National Rugby League superstar Jarome Luai is now the new face of Trukai Industries.This after Luai was recently named as the new face of Trukai Industries, joining one of Papua New Guinea’s most iconic household brands in a major four-year partnership.The long-term partnership will see Luai play a leading role across Trukai’s brand, community and sporting initiatives throughout Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific.Trukai has been a household name in Papua New Guinea for more than 50 years and is the country’s leading supplier of rice. The company is majority-owned by iconic Australian foodcompany SunRice Group, reinforcing the scale and heritage behind one of the region’s most recognisable consumer brands.Luai’s appointment represents a significant new chapter for Trukai as the company continues to strengthen its connection with rugby league, community and the next generation of Papua New Guineans.A four-time premiership winner and one of rugby league’s most recognisable personalities, Luai has built a reputation not only through his success on the field, but through his confidence,leadership and strong connection with communities across the Pacific.Trukai Industries General Manager PNG and Solomon Islands, Andrew Grace, said Luai was a natural choice to become a major face of the brand.“Jarome is one of the most recognisable and successful players in rugby league, but what makes this partnership particularly exciting for us is what he represents beyond football."“His journey, resilience, confidence and determination resonate strongly with the values of Trukai and with people across Papua New Guinea."“We see this as much more than an ambassador arrangement. This is a long-term relationship, and we are incredibly excited to welcome Jarome into the Trukai family and have him play an important role in the brand over the coming years."Luai said the opportunity to represent a brand with such a deep history and connection to Papua New Guinea made the partnership particularly meaningful.“Trukai is a brand that means a lot to people in PNG, so to become the face of the brand and build something together over the next four years is really special," said Luai.As part of the partnership, Luai will feature across Trukai campaigns, appearances and community initiatives, supporting the company’s commitment to sport, healthy living and positive opportunities for young Papua New Guineans.Luai will also join rising rugby league talent Cooper Bai as part of Trukai’s growing ambassador portfolio, bringing together established success and emerging talent across two generations of the game.The partnership further reinforces Trukai’s longstanding commitment to the communities in which it operates and its investment in sport as a platform to inspire and connect people throughout Papua New Guinea.

As Papua New Guinea celebrates 51 years of Independence, United Labour Party (ULP) leader and MP for Wau- Waria, Sam Basil Jr has called on the nation to recognise the often-overlooked contribution of workers and the labour movement in shaping the country's political and economic development.In an Independence message, Mr. Basil said the country's achievements over the past five decades were built on the hard work of ordinary Papua New Guineans, including workers in both the public and private sectors who continue to serve communities across the nation.He said while Independence celebrations often focus on national milestones and political leaders, the contribution of workers who have paid taxes, supported families and communities, and helped build the economy should not be forgotten."Often we do not acknowledge the workers in the public sector, private sector and community development who work long hours to build our society and economy," Mr. Basil said.He paid tribute to frontline and essential service workers who continue to serve the country even during public holidays, including members of the Defence Force, police, Correctional Services, health workers, firefighters, ambulance officers and employees at airports and seaports.Mr. Basil also highlighted the significant role played by the labour movement in Papua New Guinea's journey to Independence, noting that union leaders were among those who became actively involved in the country's political development during the pre-Independence period.He said labour leaders such as Oala Raura, Maori Kiki and Toni Ila were among those who worked alongside members of the Bully Beef Club in the formation of Pangu Pati, which later became one of the country's most influential political parties.According to Mr. Basil, Morobe Province played a leading role in both the labour movement and political development of Pangu Pati, with figures such as Gaudi Mirau, Michael Kaninimba and Toni Ila contributing to the party's growth.He also reflected on the historical influence of Bulolo and Wau, where workers from across Papua New Guinea were recruited under labour schemes to work in goldfields and plantations, helping shape the region's political landscape.Mr. Basil paid tribute to his late father, former Deputy Prime Minister Sam Basil, for his role in reviving Pangu Pati after its decline following the 2012 National Election.He said the late leader rebuilt and rebranded the party from 2015, increasing its parliamentary representation before later forming the United Labour Party following a split within Pangu Pati in 2019.The ULP leader acknowledged the contributions of labour advocates including John Paska, Lekwa Gure and Clemence Kanau, who continue to support workers' rights and provide policy advice to the party.However, he expressed concern about the declining influence of trade unions and labour organisations, saying there was a need to rebuild the union movement to ensure workers remain actively involved in the country's economic and social development."It is important to rebuild our union movement so workers' rights and engagement in the economy and society are protected," he said.Mr. Basil also paid tribute to founding fathers with links to the labour movement, including Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, Sir John Guise, Mackenzie Daugi and Toni Ila, who served on the Constitutional Planning Committee and helped shape the nation's future.He further acknowledged former Prime Ministers Sir Michael Somare, Sir Rabbie Namaliu and Prime Minister James Marape for their association with labour-based political movements.Looking ahead to the 2027 National Election and the country's post-50th Independence agenda, Mr. Basil said the United Labour Party would continue to focus on rebuilding trust among workers and advocating for labour-related issues."We owe much of our Independence push and the building of our economy after Independence to the workers and labour movement," he said.Mr. Basil urged Papua New Guineans celebrating Independence across the country's districts and provinces to take time to recognise teachers, health workers, retail employees, transport workers and others who continue to serve in remote communities, district headquarters, towns and cities.He extended Independence anniversary wishes to ULP supporters, party members and workers throughout Papua New Guinea, thanking them for their contribution to nation-building over the past 50 years.

A few days ago, the head of AI company Anthropic put out a call for the pace of AI development to be slowed down.Chief Executive Dario Amondei outlined the serious risks associated with the rapidly evolving technology and laid out a three-point plan that would bring together governments, companies and third-party evaluations.Rival tech bosses Sam Altman and Elon Musk have agreed with the ideas.So, what’s driving these concerns and what’s behind this call?Andrew Cullen has been writing about this for The Conversation and is an AI Consultant and Senior Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne’s School of Computing and Information Systems.He joins the show on Tuesday night to discuss.Source: RNZ

Fiji's Health Minister Dr Atonio Lalabalavu has formally declared a national HIV emergency in the country.In a pre-recorded video press statement on Tuesday, Dr Lalabalavu said the decision was backed by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and his Cabinet due to the "seriousness of the epidemic".The health minister confirmed that the government's current estimates indicated that one in every 60 adults in Fiji is living with HIV."Five years ago, the estimate was one in 167. In 2025, we recorded 2060 new HIV diagnoses," he said."HIV prevalence among women attending antenatal care reached around two percent. That means one out of 50 pregnant women now has HIV. These figures tell us the response must reach further and follow through more consistently."This week, a health researcher told RNZ Checkpoint that a "horrendously high" number of newborns were dying due to HIV-related complications in Fiji.The NZ government's SafeTravel website is warning people traveling to Fiji to avoid activities that could increase their risk of infection.According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Fiji has the second-fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the Asia-Pacific region behind Papua New Guinea (PNG).An estimated 9000 Fijians were living with HIV as of March this year, and officials pointed to high-risk drug use contributing to the rapid rise.Dr Lalabalavu said every diagnosis must lead to care and every person starting treatment needed support to remain on it.He said authorities would move quickly to introduce new interventions and scale up established services backed by evidence."That means expanding testing, treatment, and access to pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP. It also means accelerating the introduction of a formal needle and syringe programme and long-acting injectable prevention."He stressed that treatment was central to the government's response."It helps people living with HIV stay well, and when it achieves and maintains an undetectable viral load, it prevents sexual transmission."Fiji's Sexual Reproductive Health and HIV Programme Management Unit is expected to coordinate implementation, working through divisional and sub-divisional health services, and with community partners.Dr Lalabalavu said Australia, New Zealand, the Global Fund, India, and the United Nations Joint Team on HIV and AIDS, and other partners are supporting the country with its HIV response.The Fijian government has also proposed the establishment of a parliamentary standing committee on HIV and related matters, he said."To anyone who has been diagnosed with HIV, a diagnosis does not take away your future. Effective treatment can help you live a long and healthy life. Keep taking your medicine as prescribed, even when you feel well."I call on families, communities, faith leaders, schools, employers, and partners to join in this response, encourage testing, support people to stay in care, and challenge stigma wherever you encounter it."Source: RNZ Pacific