Pacific Islands Forum in Palau: Leaders head to Palau for the 55th Pacific Islands Forum (Aug 30–Sept 4) under “Building Economies: Life. Action. Unity,” with security, energy and ocean resources high on the agenda as China, the US and partners compete for influence. Realm of New Zealand talks (Auckland): In Auckland, PM Christopher Luxon met Cook Islands PM Mark Brown, Niue PM Dalton Tagelagi and Tokelau Ulu Alapati Tavite for the first four-way “Realm” leaders meeting—no deal to sign, but a push to align on shared security, regional cooperation and the upcoming Palau summit. Climate mobility funding: New Zealand-backed Pacific Climate Mobility Partnerships Programme launched with NZ$17.9m to help islands plan for climate-driven displacement and relocation with regional, people-centred support. Niue WWI remembrance: Thirty-nine memorial headstones were delivered to Niue for First World War servicemen, to be installed across villages—marking the sacrifice of about 150 Niueans who volunteered with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. Regional geopolitics watch: Kiribati is considering a constitutional change that would make it harder for future governments to switch diplomatic recognition back to Taiwan, tightening ties with China. What’s next for Niue readers: With Palau looming, Niue’s leaders are set to weigh how to protect regional unity and control over resources while major powers press their agendas.