Pacific Trade & Security: Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea have signed a 2026–2030 Framework Agreement on Development and Economic Cooperation, with talks in Port Moresby covering trade, mining reforms, security, infrastructure and regional affairs. Regional Leadership: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale urged PNG to keep leading on Pacific challenges, including strengthening the Melanesian Spearhead Group. Australia–Pacific Strategy: Australia’s defence and Pacific minister says strategic competition with China is permanent, while the US is also stepping up Pacific engagement to counter China’s influence. Visa & Mobility: Australia will open a ballot for Pacific Engagement Visas from July 1–29, doubling places for Solomon Islanders from 150 to 300 from 2027. Ports & Trade Logistics: Solomon Islands Ports Authority says it will expand the Honiara Domestic Port, including a new wharf and ramps, and says it has funded major works through savings plus World Bank and ADB support. Governance & Oversight: The Auditor General and the World Bank back a Community Participatory Audit rollout to all 50 constituencies to improve transparency in Constituency Development Funds. Business & Compliance: A joint task force has started enforcing the single-use plastic ban, with arrests expected for businesses selling banned items.