Pacific Region News
U.S. Congress ratifies Rongelap Atoll agreement
Washington, D.C. —Congress has confirmed a resettlement agreement for the people of Rongelap Atoll, who were forced from their homeland by U.S. nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands in the 1950s.
The total cost for the rehabilitation and resettlement of Rongelap is estimated to total approximately $90 million.
PNG attempts to end financial woes
PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea–Prime minister Sir Mekere Morauta, painting a bleak picture of his country’s financial crisis, told reporters he is meeting this week with representatives of donor countries and agencies in an effort to obtain urgently needed assistance.
He said the government needs to raise $450-million to retire public debt due in the next fiscal year.
He said the country’s economy is still vulnerable to collapse, despite some stabilization in recent months.
Air Fiji to fly to Tonga
SUVA, Fiji Islands—Air Fiji will begin flying between Suva’s Nausori airport and Fua’amotu airport outside Nuku’alofa, Tonga beginning November 16.
A Brazilian turbo-prop 30-seater aircraft will be used on the 90-minute flight.
An Air Fiji spokesperson said if the run proves successful, flights will be expanded to twice a week in the new year.
Two die in Hindu Diwali celebration
SUVA, Fiji Islands—A man and a boy died in accidents Sunday while celebrating the Hindu Diwali holiday.
A 14-year-old was killed when a firecracker blew up in his face, severing his head, and a 28-year-old man was electrocuted while repairing an electrical wire for use in the Festival of Lights.
The boy’s death prompted officials to call for more restrictions on the use of firecrackers.
