Deep-Sea Mining & Sovereignty: A new Pacific Network on Globalisation report warns investor-state dispute rules could let mining firms sue Pacific governments over environmental or regulatory changes, putting countries including the Cook Islands in the firing line and creating a “chilling effect” on stronger protections. Kiribati Diplomacy: Kiribati MPs are set to vote on a constitutional change aimed at making it harder for future governments to switch diplomatic recognition back to Taiwan, as ties with China deepen. Local Governance & Cost of Living: Pacific MPs are split over a proposed 4% council rates cap, with Labour open to caps but warning councils still need funding for roads, rubbish, pipes and community services. Cook Islands Deep-Sea Research: NOAA’s Okeanos Explorer has completed a 26-day ROV survey in the Cook Islands EEZ, collecting hundreds of samples and new marine specimens as the US pushes ahead with deep-sea mineral interest. Government Appointments: Three Permanent Secretaries were sworn in to lead Finance and Treasury, Police/National Security/Corrections, and Culture and Tourism, with David Teika Dennis moving from Auditor-General. Energy & Outer Islands: A letter raises concerns that outer-island solar still leaves communities dependent on diesel, questioning whether battery replacement funding matches the scale of potential diesel savings. Security Update: Police report a weekend spike in burglaries and stolen motorbikes across multiple districts, alongside other incidents including a crash and noise complaints. Youth Sport: The Ruckstars junior rugby programme in the Cook Islands received support via the Australia–Cook Islands Oa’ Tumanava Partnership and BSP sponsorship, backing active lifestyles and youth development.