News & Events

Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister, James Marape, extended his country’s best wishes to New Zealand at the Waitangi Day commemoration hosted by the New Zealand High Commission. The event marked another milestone since the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on 6 February 1840, a foundational document in New Zealand’s nationhood.

In his address, Marape commended New Zealand’s achievements, describing it as a model of democratic governance and economic resilience. He highlighted its strong free-market economy and robust institutions, contributing to domestic prosperity and regional stability. He also acknowledged New Zealand’s leadership in fostering unity among Pacific nations and its commitment to regional development.

Marape praised New Zealand’s inclusive approach and multicultural society, noting that its values of tolerance and respect for diversity serve as an example for other nations. He reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to strengthening ties with New Zealand, emphasising the need for continued cooperation in tackling shared challenges and promoting regional prosperity.

Read the original article here: https://news.pngfacts.com/2025/02/png-prime-minister-james-marape-hails.html

Singapore’s Parliament has unanimously passed a new law consolidating existing measures to uphold racial harmony while introducing safeguards against foreign interference. Around 300 clan and business associations will be designated as “race-based entities,” requiring disclosure of foreign donations.

Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam stated that the law streamlines existing powers while reaffirming the nation’s commitment to multiracialism. It grants authorities the ability to issue restraining orders against content that threatens racial harmony and introduces a community remedial initiative as an alternative to prosecution for minor offences.

Addressing concerns over free speech, Shanmugam assured that the Government has historically exercised such powers judiciously. He emphasised that the legislation does not expand the scope of existing race-related offences but aligns them with modern needs.

Read the original article here: https://indianexpress.com/article/news-today/singapore-new-law-racial-harmony-checks-on-foreign-interference-9818090/

Following the submission of a Letter of Intent to host the 2036 Olympics, India is now exploring a bid for the 2030 Commonwealth Games. According to a report in The Indian Express, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has initiated informal discussions with the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) regarding the possibility of hosting the centenary edition.

Unlike the 2010 edition held in New Delhi, Ahmedabad has emerged as the frontrunner, with Bhubaneswar also under consideration. CGF President Chris Jenkins and Chief Executive Katie Sadlier recently visited India, engaging with state and central government officials in Gandhinagar, Bhubaneswar, and New Delhi to assess the feasibility of a bid.

During the National Games opening ceremony in Dehradun, Jenkins held discussions with IOA President P. T. Usha. The CGF has set a deadline of 31 March for countries to submit an official Expression of Interest (EOI), leaving India with limited time to finalise its decision.

Read the original article here: https://www.business-standard.com/sports/commonwealth-games/india-likely-to-bid-for-2030-commonwealth-games-in-ahmedabad-report-125020500598_1.html