Tourism & Trade: Palau is widening its global reach in sport fishing, showcasing its conservation-led, culture-rich angling offer at an international trade show in San Diego—aiming to attract higher-value visitors and create new local community opportunities. Local Governance & Water: Former Cook Islands PM Henry Puna has been appointed chair of Rarotonga’s water authority, To Tatou Vai, following Brian Mason’s resignation, as the utility pushes for safe, reliable and sustainable water services. Security & Customs: Cook Islands Customs received US Homeland Security Investigations training and drug test kits to strengthen enforcement and intelligence capability as transnational crime targets the region’s “weakest link.” Energy & Community Safety: The Cook Islands Ministry of Finance and Economic Management has provided 10 electric motorbikes for local Puna community safety and monitoring in Rarotonga, cutting petrol use while improving response times. Environment & Waste Policy: Work is underway on a Cook Islands National Action Plan to tackle plastic pollution, backed by the Pacific Ocean Litter Project, with a focus on practical alternatives and coordinated action across government, business and communities. Regional Finance: The Asian Development Bank is deploying a $4b crisis package for Middle East conflict fallout, including trade finance for energy and food imports—supporting economies facing higher fuel and freight costs. Business & Skills: The Cook Islands Business Hub has closed after years supporting youth learning and careers, with graduates continuing into professional pathways in Rarotonga.