Pacific Islands Forum in Palau: Leaders head to the 55th Pacific Islands Forum with a long agenda shaped by geopolitics, transnational crime, economic pressure and regional unity, as major powers compete for influence and ocean resources. Climate finance push: Solomon Islands says it can’t accept less than progress on a Loss and Damage funding arrangement at COP27, calling the process unclear and a “red line” issue. Taiwan returns, China objects: Taiwan is back at this year’s Forum after being barred in 2025, with the U.S. backing Taiwan’s continued participation while Beijing urges the “one-China principle.” Solomon Islands politics: A notice of no-confidence against PM Matthew Wale has been lodged in parliament, citing unilateral decisions and links to major investigations. SME finance relaunch: Government and CBSI have reopened the SME Credit Guarantee Scheme to help MSMEs access loans, targeting rural businesses, women and youth. Mining law tensions: Guadalcanal Gold Ridge landowners warn proposed Mineral Resources Bill amendments could bring major changes, including State participation in mining, and are demanding more consultation. Press freedom concern: Transparency Solomon Islands and IDS founder raise alarms after police questioned a journalist and sought a confidential source. Women’s poultry boost: SIART support is helping Gold Ridge women expand broiler production, with first chicks delivered and sales expected in six weeks. Biosecurity planning: A validation workshop next week will shape Solomon Islands’ Biosecurity Strategy 2026–2036.