Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccine get green light for PNG
The Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccine have been given the green light for use in Papua New Guinea.
The nation has been utilising Astra-Zeneca and Sinopharm vaccines already - with many expiring later this month.
The Minister for Health, Jelta Wong told the Post-Courier that people can have confidence - these vaccines have both been approved by the World Health Organisation.
He said vaccines are not new to PNG where most of the people have been vaccinated against childhood diseases.
CNMI police accused of issuing firearms certificates to convicted felons
Northern Marianas police have been accused of issuing firearm registration certificates to convicted felons.
Chief Prosecutor John Bradley has been testifying before a House of Representatives' hearing on a bill to prohibit criminals from possessing firearms or ammunition in the Northern Marianas Islands.
The bill draws attention to a gap in weapon laws which he said fails to criminalize the possession of firearms and ammunition by convicted felons.
Mr Bradley said given the recent rise of firearms-related crimes, this bill would help keep the public safe.
Financial injection for Pacific businesses in regional NZ
Pacific businesses in regional Aotearoa New Zealand are to receive a financial injection in the fight against Covid-19.
The Minister for Pacific People's said the new $NZ2-million fund will co-invest in Pacific business projects to help with job creation, increases in productivity and stimulate growth in the regions.
Aupito William Sio said the ministry's strong relationships in the community will help identify businesses which need help from the Pacific Aotearoa Regional Enterprise Fund during uncertain times due to the pandemic.
"These direct investments aim to quickly provide existing Pacific regional businesses with capital to increase productivity and participation in regional economic development initiatives," added Minister Sio.
"It will also help scale up businesses to transition, diversify and participate in sectors crucial for the recovery and rebuild of the economy," he said.
US President nonimates new US Ambassador to NZ and Samoa
US President Joe Biden has nominated former senator Tom Udall as America's new ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa.
The official White House website said Mr Udall has a long and distinguished career in public service.
He served two terms as a senator and five terms as a Representative for New Mexico, and earlier was Attorney General for New Mexico the Assistant United States Attorney.
The website said Mr Udall was a notable champion for the environment, for Native Americans, for government and election reform and for resolving international disputes peacefully.
In a statement, Mr Udall said the role is integral as the US works closely with New Zealand to confront the challenges facing our nations - including Covid-19, climate, and China.
He replaces Donald Trump's pick, Scott Brown.
US President Joe Biden has nominated former senator Tom Udall as America's new ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa. Photo: AFP or licensors