Pacific security tensions: Pacific Islands Forum leaders head to Palau for the 55th Leaders Meeting as foreign ministers struggle to agree on a joint response to China’s July missile test, with Reuters reporting Nauru and Kiribati did not endorse the proposed statement—showing how hard it is to keep regional unity when security interests diverge. SPREP governance and priorities: SPREP’s 5th Executive Board Meeting in Samoa is underway, with the Secretariat stressing work across the “triple planetary crises” of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, and highlighting leadership, equity, transparency, and funding for Pacific-led solutions. Fisheries push: Pacific foreign ministers in Suva called for urgent action to protect fisheries and strengthen ocean governance, backing the Vakamanu Regional Pacific Fisheries Strategy 2026–2035 and urging leaders to reaffirm fisheries’ role in food security, livelihoods, and sovereignty. Deep-sea mining rules stalled: The UN’s International Seabed Authority extended a deep-sea exploration contract tied to Nauru Ocean Resources Inc., while again failing to finalise commercial seabed mining rules—drawing criticism over precedent and rule-of-law concerns. Shipping emissions tightening: Tuvalu proposed tougher net-zero amendments for MEPC 85, including changes to fuel-intensity targets and higher remedial unit pricing, aligning with a wider Pacific push that includes Nauru. PNA leadership: The Parties to the Nauru Agreement opened applications for a new CEO to strengthen sustainable tuna fisheries and ocean resource management, with applicants needing senior tuna and commercial leadership experience.