Japan–Solomon Islands Fiscal Deal: Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela signed a JICA Development Policy Loan in Tokyo to back Solomon Islands’ fiscal stability and reform agenda, with Japan citing nearly 50 years of support and a focus on strong institutions, a productive economy, stewardship of natural wealth, and investment in people. Auditor General Bill Push: Consultations on the Auditor General Bill 2026 resumed after Cabinet approval, with the Public Accounts Committee and Auditor General David Teika Dennis calling for stronger legal protections to safeguard the OAG’s independence and resourcing. Climate Law Reforms: MECDM continued consultations with the PMO Legislative and Policy Cabinet Sub-Committee to fast-track reforms modernising climate, environment, disaster risk reduction and sustainable development frameworks. MP Pay Rise Backlash: Prime Minister Matthew Wale says he will forgo the latest MPs’ salary increase and replace the Parliamentary Entitlements Commission with a Higher Salaries Commission by end-2027, while Transparency Solomon Islands demands the pay rise be revoked amid cost-of-living pressure. Road Works in Malaita: World Bank-funded SIRAP2 road upgrades are moving ahead with community consultations in West Kwara’ae and East Malaita, and approved tar-sealing and drainage improvements to help farmers move produce and access services. Skills for Youth: Ela Motors donated 12 toolboxes to SINU’s Automotive Engineering/TAFE to strengthen hands-on training for apprentices. Fuel Payments Upgrade: M-SELEN partnered with South Pacific Oil to enable cashless fuel payments via M-SELEN merchant accounts, QR codes, merchant codes, and *123# services.