Maritime & Security: Solomon Islands signed a U.S. Shiprider Agreement, allowing Solomon Islands law enforcement to be embedded on U.S. Coast Guard vessels, sparking opposition claims of “selling sovereignty” while government and experts point to regional ocean-control frameworks. Infrastructure & Transport: The tender for the new climate-resilient Fiu River Bridge opened under SIRAP2, replacing an ageing 77-metre crossing with an 84-metre two-lane bridge plus pedestrian access. Telecom & Connectivity: China-aided national broadband infrastructure was handed over, boosting coverage from 56% to 86% across nine provinces and 35 islands. Agriculture & Value-Add: MALD handed over SBD 1.34m in CADP grants to four indigenous agribusinesses, supporting downstream processing and farmer-to-market links, while CEMA-backed cocoa farmers report expansion with improved market support. Seaweed Jobs: Government delivered 50 boats and motors worth SBD 3.45m to 50 seaweed farming communities to improve farm access and productivity. Governance & Business Reform: The GREAT Coalition advanced consultations on modernising business, labour and immigration rules, including electronic passport and visa systems. Mining Safety: A landslide at Gold Ridge mine killed at least one person and searches continue as officials review possible causes and mining regulation needs. Trade & Industry Events: Minister Harry Kuma launched the 2026 Annual National Trade Fair (Sept 7–14), pushing innovation across farming, fishing, manufacturing and digital trade.