Sustainable Fisheries Diplomacy: Pacific countries, including the Cook Islands, pushed for stronger international recognition of Pacific-led, science-based tuna management at FAO’s COFI37 in Rome, highlighting regional monitoring and compliance systems and celebrating FFA’s Margarita Lizárraga Medal. Fintech & Trust Boom: A Cook Islands government report says international trust registrations hit a record 433, up 42% year-on-year, with financial services contributing over NZ$48m in 2024/25 and now 8.5% of real GDP—driving demand for New Zealand and global trust administration, compliance, identity, cybersecurity and payments. Transport Rules Under Pressure: Rarotonga’s new app-based ride-hailing service, Smartie Rides, has spotlighted a licensing gap in the 1967 Transport Licensing Act, with calls to update rules for vehicle-sharing platforms. Governance & Power Sector: Cook Islands Investment Corporation announced new Te Aponga Uira board appointments and leadership changes aimed at strengthening governance for reliable electricity services. Community & Heritage: Volunteers are set to repair vandalised graves at Nikao Cemetery after headstones were knocked over, including a First World War site tied to the Cook Islands Online Cenotaph restoration work. Deep-Sea Capacity Building: Twenty-three Cook Islanders returned from China after a 10-day deep-sea resource management training programme coordinated with the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority. Cost of Living Agenda: PM Mark Brown says the incoming government’s first 100 days will prioritise cost of living and housing, including fuel security and a cost-of-living review. Regional Security Context: Australia’s new “cocaine highway” crackdown plan underscores ongoing illicit trafficking risks across Pacific routes, including references to cocaine found on Cook Islands reefs.