Regional Security: Pacific Elders warned that geopolitical competition is reshaping the region, urging Pacific leaders to keep security decisions sovereign, transparent, and consensus-based. Missile Test Fallout: China’s nuclear-capable missile test into the South Pacific sparked swift criticism from Australia and New Zealand, while Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape appealed for major powers to stop using Pacific waters for missile testing and militarisation. U.S.-Pacific Priorities: A new U.S. ambassador, Jared Novelly, said Cook Islands seabed minerals are now a top priority, while also warning Pacific states about China’s growing influence. Local & Regional Governance: Fiji’s Rewa Chief criticized the RFMF push to remove constitutional immunity protections, saying it raises the bar for government accountability. Women’s Economic Power: UN Women and Samoa’s EMD announced their Markets for Change partnership for the M4C Life-Con Pacific Women’s Market Expo (15–18 July), aiming to expand market access and skills for women-led businesses. Environment & Implementation: Fiji helped lead global plastics negotiations, focusing on finance, capacity building, and support mechanisms so countries can actually deliver treaty commitments. Public Safety (Health): Nauru’s health chief urged residents to act against dengue.