The Pacific Island Times

3 weeks ago | pacificislandtimes.com | Mar-Vic Cagurangan

National economists are predicting an economic meltdown resulting from Donald Trump’s radical tariff regime that stirs up trade wars. But amid the global mayhem, local economist Gary Hiles pointed out that Guam is—oddly but agreeably—in a bright spot. The tariff hullabaloo presented a rare, serendipitous occasion when we found consolation in the isolated perks of Guam’s status as an unincorporated territory—an arrangement that is generally far from ideal.

1 month ago | pacificislandtimes.com | James Pearce

By James C. PearceA leaked document circulating online seems to cast doubt on New Caledonia's future as a part of the French Republic. Paris sent a negotiation document on its long-term involvement in New Caledonia, which was supposed to remain confidential. The language of the document implied that France either intends to exit New Caledonia in some form or substantially reduce its power.

2 months ago | pacificislandtimes.com | Joyce McClure

Photo courtesy of Island Solider LLC/Hawaii Public RadioThe per capita enlistment rate in the U.S. military for citizens of the freely associated states (Palau, the Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia) is higher than that of most U.S. states. More than 1,000 FAS citizens currently serve in the armed forces, while approximately 240 veterans reside in their home countries.

2 months ago | pacificislandtimes.com | Leah Lowonbu |Stefan Armbruster |Harlyne Joku

By Leah Lowonbu, Stefan Armbruster and Harlyne Joku(BenarNews) -- Pacific’s peak diplomatic bodies have signaled they are ready to engage with Papua New Guinea’s Autonomous Government of Bougainville as mediation begins on the delayed ratification of its successful 2019 independence referendum. PNG and Bougainville’s leaders met in the capital Port Moresby this week with a moderator to start negotiations on the implementation of the U.N.-supervised Bougainville Peace Agreement and referendum.

2 months ago | pacificislandtimes.com | Mar-Vic Cagurangan

Gov. Leon Guerrero asks the defense department to fund the establishment of a training center By Mar-Vic CaguranganThe Maritime Industrial Base Program office has signed a $40 million contract with Applied Science & Technology Research Organization of America, or ASTRO America, to jumpstart the proposed 3D printing on Guam. Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero disclosed the contract signing during a meeting with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at Andersen Air Force Base on March 27.