Critical Minerals & Geopolitics: U.S. Ambassador Jared Novelly says securing Cook Islands seabed minerals is now a top priority, ranking it “1A or 1B,” while warning Pacific states about China’s growing influence and potential “debt traps.” Regional Security & Sovereignty: Pacific Elders push back on external influence, arguing peace means justice and dignity, and that regional institutions must protect sovereignty, transparency, and equal decision-making. Fisheries Industry: The 25th Forum Fisheries Committee Ministerial Meeting wrapped in Wellington, with Niue’s outgoing chair Mona Ainu’u thanked and Shane Jones set to lead 2026–2027 priorities for Pacific fisheries cooperation. Tourism Data Skills: The Pacific Tourism Organisation finished a NZ-funded workshop in Nadi, training tourism officers from Niue and others to use stronger stats and reporting tools for evidence-based tourism planning. Tokelau Administration: New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters appoints Andre van der Walt as Administrator of Tokelau, with a focus on governance, services, and renewable energy.