Australia–Vanuatu Security Deal: Canberra and Port Vila signed the Nakamal Agreement, pledging Aus$500m support while barring any foreign military base in Vanuatu—an effort to reduce Pacific militarisation fears amid China–US rivalry. Mining Governance Push (SI–PNG): Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea agreed to deepen mining sector reforms, with PNG offering legal and technical support and sharing lessons to improve transparency, national benefit, and value retention (including plans like a gold export unit/refinery). Maritime Digital Upgrade: Solomon Ports launched its Shipping Schedule Hub App, giving passengers real-time domestic vessel movement updates and delay/cancellation notifications. Maritime Cooperation & Workforce Focus: SI and PNG also signed a 2026–2030 framework covering trade, infrastructure, security, and mining, while SI marked International Day of the Seafarer with renewed calls for maritime investment and training. Rural Agriculture Support: CEMA buying points are helping East Guadalcanal copra and cocoa farmers cut transport costs and sell more easily, with similar praise from West Guadalcanal cocoa growers. Disaster Readiness: 29 health and emergency response professionals completed disaster rehabilitation training in Honiara, supported by Australia’s regional program. Food Pressure in Honiara: El Niño-linked dry weather is reducing slippery cabbage harvests, shrinking bundles at markets and tightening supply.