Climate Finance Push: Cook Islands PM Mark Brown and other Pacific leaders head into Pre-COP31 in Fiji and Tuvalu urging faster, simpler access to adaptation funding, with officials warning that “time to impact” matters as much as pledges. Local Diplomacy: Brown is also using the trip to press ocean protection and resilience priorities, while Cook Islands High Commissioner Henry meets Fiji PM Rabuka on trade, investment, tourism and labour mobility. Security & Banking: A Cook Islands-registered case of financial crime hits the headlines as a Manihiki BCI cashier is jailed for stealing nearly $89,000, while BSP warns customers about scam calls. Infrastructure Progress: New Zealand’s NZDF continues humanitarian work on Penrhyn, including new water tanks, school and hospital repairs, and updated maritime surveying. Ocean Conservation Funding: Bezos Earth Fund announces $25m+ in new grants for ocean conservation across five Pacific nations including the Cook Islands, targeting long-term protection and management. Rugby League Spotlight: New Zealand and Pacific nations name World Cup squads, with Cook Islands listed in Group A and match schedule details circulating. Tourism Pipeline: Cook Islands Tourism opens expressions of interest for its 2027 youth scholarship pathway, Te Arata’a o te Pae Tūroto.