Cook Islands & Fiji Diplomacy: Cook Islands High Commissioner Michael Henry presented his credentials to Fiji President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, as both governments push to speed up delivery under a 2023 five-year cooperation deal covering trade, connectivity, labour mobility, education and climate. Local Business & Payments: BSP Cook Islands has replaced more than 100 EFTPoS terminals with faster 4G Verifone units, cutting wait times for merchants and customers, with further upgrades planned across the Pacific. Water Tariffs Clarification: To Tatou Vai says social media has spread an outdated residential water tariff proposal; after the 2026 annual tariff review, the residential rate stays at $1.40 per cubic metre and the free household allocation continues. Pacific Security & Sovereignty: Experts warn the Pacific’s security “architecture” is getting crowded and harder to keep Pacific-led, while deep-sea minerals are emerging as the next sovereignty test as global powers press for rules. Commonwealth Games (Pacific medal push): Nauru won a second Glasgow bronze in weightlifting, adding to Samoa and PNG medal wins, as Pacific athletes keep advancing in boxing, swimming and weightlifting. Maritime Safety: Cook Islands Police report six rescues from rough waters at Rutaki Passage and urge swimmers and visitors to heed warning signs.