Pacific Security & Diplomacy: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale met Papua New Guinea counterpart James Marape in Port Moresby and signed a 2026–2030 Framework Agreement on Development and Economic Cooperation, with talks also covering trade, mining reforms, security and people-to-people links. Regional Competition: Australia’s Pat Conroy says strategic rivalry with China in the Pacific is permanent, while the US is stepping up Pacific engagement to build economic resilience and secure communications. Local Agriculture & Rural Incomes: East Guadalcanal copra and cocoa farmers say CEMA’s rural buying points cut transport costs and make it easier to sell, with similar praise from West Guadalcanal cocoa growers for support like dryers and farming supplies. Fiscal Policy Push: Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo urged a major reset of Solomon Islands’ fiscal and economic policies, citing poverty and inequality concerns from household survey work. Ports & Maritime Economy: SIPA says it will expand the Honiara Domestic Port with a new wharf, ramps and reclamation plans, while also highlighting self-financed infrastructure funding and World Bank-supported berth upgrades. Food Prices & Climate Pressure: Honiara markets report slippery cabbage supplies are down as El Niño-linked dry weather suppresses harvests, shrinking bundles and raising pressure on shoppers. Business & Money Transfers: M-Selen partnered with Rocket Remit to let Solomon Islanders in Australia, New Zealand and the UK send money to SI wallets instantly. Infrastructure & Jobs: Road works on Honiara’s Hot Bread Roundabout are progressing, and the government marked International Day of the Seafarer with renewed focus on maritime investment and workforce development.