Pacific Security Pacts: Australia and Fiji signed the Ocean of Peace Alliance, a mutual defence deal that could deepen Australia’s security footprint across the Pacific and invite more members, including New Zealand. Regional Tensions: The pact landed amid China’s long-range missile test in the Pacific, drawing strong condemnation and fresh calls by Solomon Islands leaders for a stronger regional security arrangement. Honiara Border Tech: Munda International Airport went live with the Solomon Islands Border Management System, processing international arrivals electronically for the first time, as part of a trilateral push with Australia and PNG. Mining Governance: Solomon Islands and PNG agreed to strengthen mining sector reforms and cooperation, with Solomon Islands prioritising alluvial gold governance, including plans for a dedicated gold export unit and, longer term, a national refinery. Local Business Finance: New Zealand increased support for Solomon Islands SMEs via Business Link Pacific, adding SBD2.3m capital to DBSI and SBD14m budget support to improve the enabling environment for private sector growth. Road Works in Honiara: Sealing works on the Hotbread Roundabout–Central Market seaside corridor are progressing and are expected to reopen to traffic by end of week, with remaining works shifting to the landside section. Education Push: Prime Minister Matthew Wale reaffirmed education as the foundation for prosperity, including progressively introducing free education and expanding TVET and university access from 2027. Local Content & Jobs: Wale’s GREAT Coalition policy also targets a productive economy through a Local Content Protection Policy, plus plans to lower electricity tariffs and boost sectors like agriculture, fisheries, tourism, manufacturing and the digital economy.