Republic of Vanuatu — Melanesian island nation in the South Pacific
Tate and Tristan Tate are in Florida custody while British prosecutors pursue extradition on rape, sex trafficking, and related charges. Their lawyers say online posts are designed to attract attention and income, though prosecutors describe them as evidence of a flight risk. The lawyers argue wealth claims are exaggerated and that rented assets are used for promotional content.
Pacific Islands Forum leaders are confronting a mounting climate crisis and rising geopolitical pressures as big powers seek influence in the region. Discussions underscore the need for a Pacific-driven agenda amid El Niño disruptions, fuel shocks, and funding gaps for adaptation.
Pacific Islands Forum opens in Palau as Beijing objects to Taiwan’s attendance. Pacific leaders press for autonomy in agenda; China warns of consequences. Taiwan’s foreign minister attends, sparking diplomatic friction.
Malaysia has begun repatriating Myanmar nationals, sending about 1,476 people this week as part of a planned 5,000-person programme. The government says returns are voluntary and aimed at easing pressure from a rising anti-migrant backlash. The UN, rights groups and medical charities have warned returns cannot be verified as voluntary and say returnees could face violence, persecution or forced conscription in Myanmar.
The MV Matui sank between Ambae and Santo in Vanuatu during bad weather. Officials say at least one person is dead and more than 30 remain missing. Fifteen survivors have been accounted for, and authorities are launching an investigation into possible negligence and overloading. Rescue operations are focused along the south-east coast as currents may carry survivors.
A roll-on/roll-off ferry, Virgo Transport 8, has capsized in the Java Sea while travelling from Surabaya to Banjarmasin. Rescuers have recovered 108 survivors and at least nine bodies; more than 120 passengers and crew remain missing. Salvage teams and specialist divers are preparing to right the vessel to allow safer recovery amid strong currents and rough seas.
A ferry sank off Santo and Ambae after a suspected overloading incident. Authorities have confirmed deaths and dozens of missing, with rescuers continuing searches as weather hampers efforts.
Global climate talks COP31 see a push to double rooftop solar adoption to 300 million homes by 2030, with endorsements from multiple countries and calls for rapid grid upgrades and subsidies to turn pledges into action.