PORT VILA, 05 OCTOBER 2026 (PACNEWS)—The Vanuatu Government has condemned a letter attributed to French National Assembly member Nicolas Metzdorf, describing it as insulting, neo-colonial and disrespectful of Vanuatu’s sovereignty. The letter, dated 01 October 2026, has been circulating on social media and is addressed to the Prime Minister of the “Condominium of the New […]
Author Archives: Island Times
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Mechesil Belau calls on women to safeguard Palau’s cultural traditions
By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau — Palauan women, as keepers of the nation’s cultural traditions in a matrilineal society, have a responsibility to ensure that traditional customs are practiced correctly and passed on to future generations, participants at the 33rd annual Mechesil Belau Conference said. During a panel discussion on traditional leadership, cultural values and […]
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DAVE Art Show centers on 1981 vision of Palau’s future
By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (Oct.1, 2026)— “Belau ra Klukuk, Belau er Kid,” translated as “Belau of Tomorrow, Our Belau,” took on special meaning at this year’s DAVE Art Show, where a 1981 painting by Palauan artist Samuel Adelbai served as the exhibition’s centerpiece. Adelbai’s “Bai er Belau” offered a striking vision of what Palau’s […]
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Last-minute CBA again keeps Palau government running
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang NGERULMUD, Palau (Oct. 1, 2026)— “I believe we have to look carefully again at the budget process so that we don’t always hustle in the last hour to push for a continuing budget just so that the government will not shut down,” Sen. Secilil Eldebechel said as lawmakers approved another temporary […]
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Palau’s CITES obligations put giant clam exports in focus
By: Summer Kennard KOROR, Palau (October 1, 2026) — “Without the international market and trade, the value of our clam industry will plummet,” a Palau giant clam farmer said, underscoring the economic stakes as the government works to finalize legislation formally establishing Palau’s legal framework for the international wildlife trade convention. Palau’s giant clam farmers […]
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Four Young Palauans Bring New Confidence, Skills Home From Four Seasons Training
By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau — “The character development from the change of environment is what brings us here today,” said Four Seasons receptionist Dilreng Dee-Light Patrick, reflecting a common experience shared by four young Palauans who trained overseas and returned home with new skills, confidence and a broader view of what Palau’s tourism industry […]