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PAPE'ETE, French Polynesia (July 1, 2002 - Oceania Flash)---An estimated 20,000 French Polynesians took to the streets of the capital, Pape'ete, Saturday to celebrate "Autonomy Day," the territorial news agency Tahitipresse reports.

To mark the French territory's accession to autonomy status, a traditional parade near the Pape‘ete waterfront featured floats and presentations by representatives of local associations, dancers, sports teams and other groups.

In other capital areas, bands played in open-air concerts

Fireworks ended the day’s celebration.

Autonomy Day recalls June 29, 1880, when the Leeward and Windward island groups became a part of France.

Autonomy Day became official in 1984, when French Polynesia’s relationship with France was altered, giving some executive powers to the local government.

The status further evolved six years ago, when France granted more powers to the territorial government, including dealing with...

TARAWA, Kiribati (July 1, 2002 - Radio Kiribati/PINA Nius Online)---Kiribati President Teburoro Tito has urged leaders of the island councils to find ways to improve living standards in the outer islands.

This is so people stop moving to the capital, South Tarawa, and causing further overcrowding there, he said.

President Tito made the comments when he officially opened a meeting of the heads of local governments in Tarawa.

He echoed concerns about overcrowding in South Tarawa, as many people are still arriving in the capital looking for a better lifestyle and economic and other opportunities.

Reports point out that South Tarawa and Betio are heavily populated by many people who are neither employed nor educated. But they are looking for better opportunities, jobs, schooling and entertainment.

Health authorities and police have expressed concern, saying the in migration is the root of social problems in the capital area, such as youths fighting...

APIA'S LOCAL FAGALI‘I AIRPORT STILL OUT OF ACTION

APIA, Samoa (July 1, 2002 - Samoa News/PINA Nius Online)---Polynesian Airlines and Samoa Air are still operating domestic services and flights between the Samoas through Faleolo International Airport, meaning a long road journey for Apia passengers.

The airlines said they will do so until the Samoa Airport Authority addresses safety concerns on the runway at Fagali‘i Airport, outside Apia city.

Resealing of the runway and renovation work to the parking lot and the main terminal building started on April 15. The projects were to have been fully completed last month.

But both airlines have concerns that loose gravel on the runway could cause damage to aircraft when landing and taking off.

The airlines normally use Fagali‘i for local flights, with Twin Otters, during the day and Faleolo at night.

All international jet services use Faleolo.

Items from the SAMOA NEWS, American Samoa's...

ECONOMIC MINISTERS MEETING IN VANUATU

By Tukaha Mua Fiji TV

PORT VILA, Vanuatu (July 1, 2002 - PINA Nius Online)---The Forum Economic Ministers Meeting (FEMM) begins in Vanuatu Tuesday, including a "stock-take" of how far Forum island countries have come in implementing key accountability and transparency principles.

The official opening ceremonies will take place on the grounds of Port Vila's Crown Plaza Resort, on Vanuatu’s main island of Éfaté. Local and foreign dignitaries will experience a colorful and entertaining affair.

Emma Ferguson, Economic Adviser to the Forum Secretariat, told a group of Pacific Islands journalists: "Good governance, economic and financial sector reform along with financial sector investment are expected to be discussed by finance ministers and heads of delegations."

Two key Issues Papers to be delivered include an Economic Outlook for the Region, prepared by the Forum Secretariat, along with presentations on Private...