China-Pacific Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Wang Yi told Solomon Islands’ Rick Houenipwela in Beijing that China has “no geopolitical intentions” and does not seek a “sphere of influence,” saying Pacific states are sovereign and can choose partners freely, with cooperation coming “with no political strings attached.” Healthcare Upgrade: Japan formally handed over the upgraded Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita after a SBD$130m redevelopment, adding emergency and outpatient services, an operating theatre, imaging and pharmacy. Local Security: Police stepped up patrols in Belaha, Central Guadalcanal, after break-ins and suspected arson, including incidents near a mining prospecting camp and a logging truck fire. Market Governance: Honiara City Council denied it plans to dissolve the Honiara Central Market Vendors Association, after reports of a circulated letter and safety concerns raised by women farmers. Agriculture & Food Security: SINU and Australia’s CSIRO advanced local feed solutions to cut livestock and tilapia costs, while Nia Organic Farmers in Makira-Ulawa urged more support, especially for transport and market access. El Niño Preparedness: The UN is preparing up to US$100m in emergency funding via CERF as forecasts warn the next El Niño could be worse than 2023-24, threatening food, water and health across Asia and the Pacific. Transport Works: MID says westbound passengers will use a new temporary bus stop behind HCC during final road works on the Hotbread Roundabout–Central Market corridor. Livestock Project: Fencing has begun at the Mile 6 Cattle Project in Western Province, with Jogos Construction starting phase one on 32 hectares funded through the PCDF. Sanitation Training: UNICEF and partners trained community members in Ghaobata Ward to build low-cost, durable rural toilets to reduce open defecation. Tourism Uptick: Bloody Ridge National Peace Park reported visitor numbers more than doubling in the first half of 2026, with strong growth from the United States and other international markets.