Fuel Costs: Pacific governments are using welfare support and fuel and transport subsidies to soften the oil-price shock, which is also driving up freight costs and squeezing outer-island households, fishing livelihoods and food security. Fisheries: The FFA warns criminal networks are exploiting tuna shipments and vessels to smuggle cocaine across the Pacific. A strengthening El Niño could also shift tuna grounds and catch rates through 2027, including in the southern Cook Islands, affecting fisheries management and earnings. Climate Finance: Prime Minister Mark Brown is urging partners to turn climate pledges into money that reaches communities. The Green Climate Fund says a further US$300 million for Pacific projects may go before its board, while the Pacific Resilience Facility remains below its funding targets. Local Resilience: Growers are being urged to conserve water as a prolonged dry season looms. Seabed Minerals: Te Ipukarea Society says economic risks must be weighed alongside technical and environmental concerns as exploration continues. New Zealand Partnership: Cook Islands and New Zealand officials agreed to renew their partnership framework, with education, Pa Enua schools and infrastructure among the priorities.