Pacific Security: China’s nuclear-capable missile test in the South Pacific has sparked fresh unease over military posturing and alliances, with Australia and New Zealand condemning the move as undermining regional peace, while China says it followed international law and wasn’t aimed at any country. Regional Sovereignty: Pacific Elders warned that geopolitical competition is reshaping the region, urging security to stay in Pacific hands and calling for institutions that protect sovereignty, transparency, and equal decision-making. Niue-Linked Minerals & Influence: U.S. Ambassador Jared Novelly says securing Cook Islands seabed critical minerals is now a top priority, while warning Pacific states about China’s growing influence and potential “debt traps”—and he plans to spend time in the Cook Islands, Niue, and Samoa. Fisheries Governance: The 25th Forum Fisheries Committee ministerial meeting wrapped up in Wellington, with Niue’s outgoing chair Mona Ainu’u praised and New Zealand’s Shane Jones set to lead 2026–2027. Tourism Data Capacity: The Pacific Tourism Organisation completed a New Zealand-funded workshop in Nadi to boost tourism research skills across Niue and other Pacific countries.