Agribusiness Skills in Malaita: The SIART project ran a three-day training in Auki (26–28 Aug) on financial literacy and feed formulation for young agriculture extension officers, aiming to help Malaita’s 45 supported ABPOs run more profitable rural businesses. World Bank-backed Agriculture Infrastructure: In Auki, construction of a new double-storey agriculture office (SBD17.9m) has passed the halfway mark and is on track for roofing within a 12-month build, meeting CESMP environmental and safety requirements. Construction Finance Boost: Australia supported an Access to Finance workshop in Honiara, linking over 50 contractors with banks and business support groups and stressing records, cash-flow management, and meeting lending requirements. Energy and Electricity Costs: World Bank discussions at the PIF highlighted support for Solomon Islands energy reforms and the Tina River Hydropower push to cut reliance on imported fuel and lower power costs. Maritime Safety Check: A marine inquiry has started into the MV Anjeanette fire, sinking and presumed loss of life, examining cargo handling, dangerous goods, crew readiness, and emergency response. Cattle Project Update: The Garanga National Cattle Project in Isabel is progressing with pasture establishment (about 14 hectares in Paddock 2) despite dry-season setbacks and fuel limits. Business Confidence Hit by Politics: SICCI says ongoing political instability is stalling decisions, delaying approvals and financing, and weakening investor confidence across the private sector. Climate Resilience for Schools: A new EU-UNICEF €17m programme launched at the PIF will upgrade school infrastructure and maintenance systems across Fiji, FSM, Kiribati and Solomon Islands, targeting about 15,000 children. Pacific Islands Forum Diplomacy: Leaders wrapped the 55th PIF in Palau with a push for urgent climate action and renewed focus on regional security and external influence, while Taiwan-China tensions and missile-test concerns continued to shadow talks.