Pacific Islands Forum in Palau: Leaders are meeting under the B.E.L.A.U theme, but unity is shaky with major absences and a Taiwan–China diplomatic fight casting a shadow over climate and human security priorities. Geopolitics vs basics: Analysts and officials warn that focus on outside rivalry could crowd out urgent work on renewable energy, drug crime, food security, and climate action. Security coordination push: Former FFA chief Manu Tupou-Roosen says the Pacific doesn’t need more security bodies—just better use of existing ones, with year-round coordination tied to national priorities. Fuel security signal: The US is expected to announce a US$60m fuel security deal at the summit, alongside port funding for the Cook Islands. Climate finance to communities: The Pacific Resilience Facility is taking 14 small community projects to pre-COP events and COP31, including water, coastal restoration, sanitation, and renewable energy efforts. Deep-sea mining warning (incl. Nauru): Reports flag legal “chilling effects” from investor-state disputes if Pacific states tighten rules; separate coverage highlights phosphate mining risks and points to Nauru’s past impacts. Nauru-linked fisheries fallout: Tokelau reportedly lost over 60% of fishing revenue after expulsion from the Vessel Day Scheme under the Nauru Agreement, raising budget pressure and readmission hopes. Nauru in the spotlight: India’s MoS Pabitra Margherita met Nauru President David Adeang to advance bilateral development projects during the forum week.