Aviation & Connectivity: New Zealand Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters pointed to the Cook Islands’ airline turnaround as a Pacific aviation model, stressing how tourism-dependent economies rely on reliable routes and community “lifeline” services. Fiscal Discipline: Solomon Islands Opposition backed Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo’s “realistic” stance in the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill, warning against spending growth without matching revenue or a clear financing plan. Mining Governance: Women were urged to strengthen transparency and accountability in mining communities, while the Gold Ridge landowners council backed wider consultations on the Mineral Resources Bill after proposed changes since 2024. Energy & Risk: PM Matthew Wale said the Tina Hydro project is a financial risk that should teach lessons, even as officials report it remains on schedule toward February 2028 commissioning; the TBM was also named “Rotima.” Border & Trade Infrastructure: Australia and Solomon Islands opened the Western Border Outpost in Lofung/Shortlands, consolidating RSIPF, Customs, Immigration and Biosecurity, with jobs and local contracts. Land & Revenue Systems: MLHS is exploring a digital Integrated Land Information System to improve government land records and land-rent collection. Skills for Industry: Japan’s Nippon Foundation is supporting plans for TAFE Schools of Trade to build a manufacturing and processing-ready workforce. Fisheries Investment: Government reaffirmed Bina Harbour as a central tuna processing priority through April 2028, alongside stronger monitoring and electronic reporting. Business Support: Strongim Bisnis accelerator winners received laptops and Starlink units to boost MSME productivity and market access.