AGP Executive Report
Last update: 6 hours agoPacific economy watch: The World Bank says growth across 11 Pacific island countries will cool to 2.8% in 2026, with higher fuel and shipping costs and weaker tourism momentum blamed for the slowdown. Vanuatu-Australia diplomacy: Vanuatu’s cabinet has approved a new version of the Nakamal Agreement with Australia, with a deal now awaiting final approval from Canberra and framed as a sovereignty-safe compromise amid Australia-China rivalry. Ocean protection push: Vanuatu PM Jotham Napat used the Melanesian Oceans Summit to call for “courage” on marine protection, announcing 17,000 sq km already protected and urging a regional “corridor” approach. Public order crackdown: Vanuatu has launched a 60-day zero tolerance drive, targeting youth loitering and alcohol-linked offences, plus a youth rehab and school cadet programme. Climate costs: Solomon Islands says climate loss and damage is costing it US$79m a year. Crime and kids: New NSW offences target “kill cars” and the recruitment of children by organised criminals. Justice shock: Prosecutors dropped the murder charge in the Isla Bell case, downgrading to an attempt to pervert justice. Cyber and skills: Australia will embed a cyber adviser in Samoa, while small robots are being used to tackle a looming renewable energy skills shortage.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result.