Pacific Funding Race: The US and Australia announced a combined US$738m (S$738m) push for Pacific Island nations, with Washington pledging US$150m including US$60m for fuel storage and grid stability, plus support targeting illegal fishing and regional infrastructure. Penrhyn Port Deal: The US, New Zealand and the Cook Islands signed off on a US$60m (NZ$101.5m) “lifeline” upgrade for Penrhyn (Tongareva) on a former WWII base—US$50m from Washington and NZ$17.5m from Wellington—aimed at safer shipping and outer-island connectivity, while critics warn it could fast-track deep-sea mining. PIF Unity Under Strain: The 55th Pacific Islands Forum in Palau opened amid major leader absences and a stalled push for consensus, with New Zealand and others questioning whether the forum’s influence is being diluted. China-Taiwan Tension: China warned of “consequences” after Taiwan’s presence at the forum opening, while Australia and New Zealand said the Pacific Islands Forum sets its own agenda. Whale Highways Call: Conservation groups urged Pacific countries to protect migration routes with “blue corridors” or “whale highways,” linking ocean life across borders. Cook Islands Sport & Culture: Miss Cook Islands Tiare Henry-Anguna highlighted Manihiki-inspired pearl heritage at Miss World 2026 in Vietnam, while Cook Islands weather updates lifted strong wind warnings for the Southern Group but advised caution as swells linger.