Pacific Diplomacy with China: Foreign Minister Wang Yi told Solomon Islands’ Rick Houenipwela in Beijing that China seeks no “sphere of influence” and that Pacific partners are “not anyone’s backyard,” stressing cooperation with “no political strings attached.” Independence Planning: SINU VC Dr Transform Aqorau urged a national debate ahead of the 2028 50th Independence anniversary, calling for reforms to public financial management, a Sovereign Wealth Fund, stronger resource ownership, education reshaping, and more provincial authority. Healthcare Upgrade: Japan formally handed over the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita, a SBD$130m project adding emergency care, theatres, imaging, and pharmacy services. Crime and Investment Risk: Central Guadalcanal MP Peter Shanel Agovaka demanded an urgent crackdown on alleged organised crime in Belaha, warning it could deter investment and tourism. El Niño Funding: The UN is preparing up to US$100m in emergency support as El Niño threatens food, water, health and livelihoods across the Pacific and beyond. Agriculture Livestock Push: Fencing has begun at the Mile 6 Cattle Project in Western Province, with the first 32 hectares under contract and funded via the PCDF. Education Support: MEHRD and New Zealand launched a Partnership Support Hub to strengthen education delivery and coordination. Connectivity for Business Travel: Solomon Airlines and Philippine Airlines signed an interline deal enabling seamless Honiara–Manila connections via Port Moresby and Brisbane. Internet for Power Utility: SATSOL renewed its 24-month master service agreement with Solomon Power to supply operational internet connectivity.