A travel writer spends a week on the remote island of Niue with her ex-boyfriend's best friend, Jake, exploring the island's natural beauty and whales, while reflecting on friendship, love, and personal growth during her milestone 50th birthday.
The United States has officially recognized the Cook Islands and Niue as independent states, as President Joe Biden aims to strengthen relationships in the Indo-Pacific region as a counter to China's growing influence. The recognition comes as the Biden administration seeks to deepen engagement with Pacific Island nations and hosted the Pacific Island Forum leaders at the White House. Biden announced new infrastructure funding for Pacific Island partner nations and unveiled plans to improve maritime domain awareness in the Pacific through the Quad partnership. The US also pledged investment in the region for climate change, sustainable development, and military partnerships.
US President Joe Biden is set to announce the opening of new embassies in the Cook Islands and Niue as part of efforts to counter China's influence in the South Pacific. The announcement comes ahead of a summit with Pacific Island leaders, where discussions will focus on climate change. Biden aims to strengthen ties with the Pacific Islands and address global challenges such as climate change and sustainable development. The US has been working to deepen engagement in the region, including opening embassies in the Solomon Islands and Tonga, and renewing agreements with Palau and Micronesia.