US–Cook Islands Minerals Push: New US ambassador Jared Novelly says securing Cook Islands critical seabed minerals is a top priority, warning Pacific states about China’s growing influence and “debt traps,” while noting the US wants to bring in companies for extraction and supply-chain security. Fisheries Monitoring: Cook Islands renewed its MoU with the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency to keep the Regional Aerial Surveillance Programme operating in its EEZ, aimed at spotting and deterring IUU fishing. Regional Diplomacy & Politics: Cook Islands United Party leader Te Ariki Heather says major talks with New Zealand could wait until after the August 12 election and New Zealand’s own election, while ruling out a separate Cook Islands passport. Local Governance & Planning: The Cook Islands 2026 Census reaches its “Reference Day” July 1, with household visits running through July 24 to guide future policy and infrastructure decisions. Deep-Sea Mining Risk Debate: New reports warn deep-sea mining could mobilise naturally occurring radioactive materials into the marine food chain, adding pressure on regulators as the International Seabed Authority debates rules. Tourism Data Skills: Pacific Tourism Organisation workshop training (funded by New Zealand) boosts tourism research and statistics capability across multiple Pacific countries, including Cook Islands. Asset Protection Industry Note: Avenue CI highlights a third straight Bloomberg Businessweek award for trustee services, positioning Cook Islands trust structures as part of Asia-Pacific wealth planning.