Drone over Ambrym volcano (file image) Photo: Supplied
Vanuatu - volcano
The volcanic alert level for Ambrym volcano in Vanuatu has been increased from one to three.
The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department (VMGD) said Ambrym volcano is now in a minor eruption state.
It said observations from the Ambrym volcano webcam and seismic data analysis confirm an eruption inside Benbow Crater.
It said the volcanic activity consists of a strong glow, loud explosions, gas, and steam.
The VMDG said people from Ambrym and neighbouring islands may view gas plumes and observe volcanic glow.
The possibility that volcano activity will escalate to the level of moderate eruption - Level 4 - is low, for now.
Northern Marianas - weather
Residents in the Northern Marianas have been warned heavy winds are expected through to Thursday.
The National Weather Service in Guam has issued multiple advisories for the region.
It said the Marianas can expect northeast winds gusting up to 75 kilometres an hour.
This is strong enough to bring down trees and threaten the power supply.
Because of the threat, Governor Arnold Palacios has advised residents to fasten loose objects or shelter in a safe location.
Federated States of Micronesia - ocean
The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has filed a new claim with the UN over certain ocean areas.
Last month, FSM President Wesley Simina approved a new map series that shows the FSM's maritime zones including extended continental shelves.
The Pacific Island Times reports the new map is part of an amended regulation that officially recognised the permanence of maritime boundaries and the continental shelf.
The claimed areas cover approximately 190 square kilometres, which is likely rich in natural resources.
The president's office said these claims may be subject to overlapping claims by neighbouring nations.
They are also subject to examination by the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Portions of the marked territories are also being claimed by Palau and Japan.
Fiji - court
The Fiji Court of Appeal will hear the cases of former Sodelpa MPs in March.
Fiji Live reports Niko Nawaikula, Salote Radrodro and Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua were last year convicted on a charge each of giving false information to a public servant and obtaining financial advantage.
Radrodro and Ratu Suliano's appeal application will be called on 1 March, while Nawaikula's application will be heard on 4 March.
Nawaikula has since been released, while the other two are still serving time.
Solomon Islands - China
The Solomon Islands caretaker Foreign Affairs Minister Jeremiah Manele has reaffirmed his country's allegiance to the One China Policy.
It comes after Nauru announced its diplomatic switch away from Taiwan.
Manele called for international respect for China's sovereignty over Taiwan, while Taipei strongly disputes Beijing's position.
The Chinese Embassy in Honiara applauded the Solomon Islands' firm adherence to the One-China principle.
It said the result of the Taiwan election cannot change the underlying dynamic and future direction of Cross-Strait relations.
Taiwan now has 12 diplomatic allies left, including Palau, Tuvalu and the Marshall Islands.
Tonga - remains
Tonga Police say the discovery of human remains at Yellow Pier in Nuku'alofa is no longer being treated as a homicide.
Deputy Police Commissioner Tevita Vailea told Matangi Tonga a head was found at the pier by two fishermen early on Christmas Day.
He said the post-mortem report revealed it was separated from the body after death.
Vailea said it is now thought the remains were used in a ritual by someone who had supernatural beliefs.
Police are looking out for graves that may have been destroyed.
Samoa - price
Samoa's Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour has urged customers to report any evidence of price hiking at local stores.
The Ministry chief executive warned in a public notice that wholesalers and retailers of basic food items are advised to comply with all the requirements of the latest Price Control Order, released in September.
According to the Samoa Observer, members of the public raised concerns regarding the surge in prices for certain essential food items during the festive season.
Some stores were reported to be selling chicken pieces at $10 tālā per kilogram, when the price control order states it should not be selling for more than $8 tālā per kilo.
Samoa - credentials
China's new Ambassador to Samoa has presented his credentials in Apia.
Fei Mingxing replaces Chao Xiaoliang, who completed his diplomatic tour of duty last month.
Samoa and China established diplomatic relations in 1975.
Fei held various senior positions within the Beijing Service Bureau for Diplomatic Missions and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China.
