Orly Halpern is a print journalist, on-air TV and radio reporter, field producer and researcher based in Jerusalem, Israel.
Orly Halpern grew up in Orange County, California and Tucson, Arizona. A visit to the Middle East as a teenager enticed her to return as an adult. Since moving to Jerusalem ...

PM James Marape says Israel to fund PNG embassy in the contested city of Jerusalem

01 Oct 2023  |  RNZ  |  English  |  Middle East Conflict

Papua New Guinea has opened an embassy in Jerusalem, funded by Israel for the first three years, marking it as one of the few countries to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Prime Minister James Marape emphasized the religious significance and potential economic benefits of the move. Critics, including former Israeli diplomat Alon Liel, have condemned the financial arrangement as unprecedented and morally questionable. The decision aligns with pro-Israel sentiments within PNG and follows similar diplomatic gestures by other nations, such as Fiji.

Tags:

Fijian government Government of Israel United Nations Israeli Foreign Ministry

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Lice Movono is a Suva-based multiplatform journalist, communications specialist and media skills trainer with over two decades of experience covering the South Pacific, particularly Fiji, for including reporting for international outlets including ABC, RNZ, Al Jazeera, The Guardian among other ...

Australians experienced 'neurological symptoms' at Fiji resort, health authorities say

16 Dec 2024  |  www.abc.net.au  |  English  |  Tourism

Two Australians remain hospitalized after consuming cocktails at Fiji's Warwick Resort, with symptoms including nausea and neurological issues. Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka emphasized the isolated nature of the incident and ongoing investigations, including toxicology tests. The Australian government updated its travel advisory for Fiji, warning of potential drink spiking and methanol poisoning. The incident has raised concerns among tourists, with the resort remaining operational amid the investigation.

Tags:

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Australian Government Fiji Police Force Fiji Government

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Serafina Silaitoga is a journalist based in Labasa, Fiji.

Council needs own ‘regulatory mechanism’

29 Mar 2024  |  The Fiji Times  |  English  |  Economic Disparity

FijiFirst MP Mosese Bulitavu argues that the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) should have its own regulatory mechanism to operate independently and avoid excessive government involvement, which would necessitate taxpayer input. He suggests that administrative roles currently managed by the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs and ITLTB could fall under the GCC, along with interests like customary fishing rights and royalties from natural resources. Bulitavu also notes that the 1987 and 2000 coups were driven by economic disparities affecting the iTaukei community, leading to political instability and racial tensions.

Tags:

FijiFirst government Ministry of iTaukei Affairs Great Council of Chiefs ITLTB

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Right

Political View

Suranjana Tewari is a journalist based in Mumbai, India.

****

Pacific Island Fiji aims for a high-tech future

01 Oct 2023  |  BBC  |  English  |  Technology

Fiji is looking to diversify its economy by investing in technology and business services, moving away from traditional industries and tourism. Entrepreneur Truman Bradley highlights the potential for tech sectors like app development to retain local graduates. The country faces challenges from climate change and geopolitical competition but sees opportunities in expanding markets for products like ginger, turmeric, and kava. The government and local leaders emphasize the importance of processing local resources to maximize economic benefits and employment opportunities.

Tags:

University of the South Pacific Fiji Government US China Australia New Zealand

Informative

Factuality Scale

Timoci Vula is a journalist based in Suva - City Center, Fiji.

Right environment a must for productivity

25 Nov 2024  |  The Fiji Times  |  English  |  Productivity

Fiji's productivity journey hinges on a harmonious blend of a conducive environment for growth, effective leadership, and strong relationships. Maritino Nemani, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Work Relations, emphasized the importance of these elements at the TOPEX Conference 2024 in Nadi. He highlighted the government's commitment to reducing business compliance costs, enhancing workforce skills, and expanding digital access to government services, aiming to foster economic growth and prosperity for all Fijians.

Tags:

Fijian Government Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Work Relations

Informative

Factuality Scale