Pacific Islands Forum Fallout: Kiribati was snubbed at the PIF closing in Palau and was also absent from the Leaders Retreat, sending a special envoy instead of President Taneti Maamau; the country’s China-linked stance on missile testing is again in the spotlight. Missile Test Diplomacy: Pacific leaders registered concern over China’s ICBM test overflew members without notice, but consensus was shaky—Naoero dissented and Kiribati stayed away from key talks, while Palau and Australia pushed for a unified condemnation. China–Taiwan Tensions: China warned of “consequences” after Taiwan’s Foreign Minister attended PIF opening events, putting Palau in the middle as Beijing and Taipei rivalry spills into regional business and development agendas. Ocean & Fisheries Agenda: Leaders tightened positions on ocean sovereignty, fisheries, deep-sea minerals and marine pollution, backing a 2026 Ocean Statement and work toward the 2027 BBNJ process. Climate-Resilient Education: UNICEF and the EU launched a €17m Pacific Climate Resilient Education Systems programme to upgrade schools’ water, sanitation, renewable power and disaster readiness. Kiribati–India Cooperation: India’s High Commissioner met Kiribati officials to expand bilateral cooperation across multiple domains. Local Safety & UXO Disposal: New Zealand and Kiribati police plan to move and dispose of 400+ WWII UXOs in Betio, improving safety in densely populated areas. Tuvalu Fintech Push: Tuvalu’s early fintech build-out is tied to connectivity gains—new cable arrival, Starlink, mobile money work, and new ATMs/point-of-sale.