Pacific Forum leadership shift: New Zealand has joined the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Troika, taking on expanded oversight ahead of Auckland hosting in 2027, with PM Christopher Luxon saying the goal is progress on economic prosperity, regional security and resilience. Solomon Islands-Japan ties: Japan reaffirmed support for Solomon Islands’ development priorities, including work via an education task force and exploration of aviation assistance such as airport infrastructure and terminals. Energy and cost pressures: The World Bank reiterated backing for Solomon Islands energy reforms and the Tina River Hydropower push, as ministers urged Pacific action to cut fuel-related transport and insurance costs to lower electricity prices. Business confidence hit by politics: SICCI warned that ongoing political instability is stalling decisions, delaying approvals and financing, and weighing on jobs and investment plans. Finance ministry shake-up ahead of no-confidence: Opposition says PM Matthew Wale’s sacking of Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo is a serious leadership error just before Parliament debates the no-confidence motion. Regional fisheries security: Australia’s RAAF supported Solomon Islands-led maritime surveillance under Operation Solania, identifying vessels of interest, while Solomon Islands called for a future-fit Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre. Biosecurity planning: MALD is preparing a Solomon Islands National Biosecurity Strategy 2026–2036 after a national validation workshop, aiming to protect agriculture and food security from invasive pests and diseases. Climate-resilient schools: UNICEF and the EU launched a €17m Pacific Climate Resilient Education Systems programme to upgrade schools’ water, sanitation, renewable energy and disaster readiness.