"Tears in my eyes. Thank you Minister and all those working alongside you.. This is a beautiful act for our beautiful imperiled planet."
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"It was very surreal for me to be in a place that for years I criticised from the offshore prisons."
"(The plan) shows direct disregard for the sovereignty and self-determination of Pacific peoples and the ocean their livelihoods depend upon."
Global Voices Southeast Asia and Oceania editor Mong Palatino reviews the impact of China's economic and diplomatic expansion in the Pacific.
"If allowed to go ahead, mining will irreversibly destroy ancient deep sea habits and impact those who rely on the ocean for their livelihood."
"It is meant to be a reminder to us all that our solidarity and unity as a region is dependent on how we treat each other with respect and understanding."
"Irrespective of whichever side you may have family or friends on, there are innocent lives that are being used as pawns in a very vicious game."
"It may well be draconian leaving no room for corruption by ministers and government officials to be brought to public attention."
"This has nothing to do with "demeaning coverage" and everything to do with a government in Honiara allergic to scrutiny."
Many of the creatures featured in this piece, as well as our coastal economies, are under threat as the climate crisis warms ocean waters and threatens coastal ecosystems