Maritime Climate Clash: Pasifika negotiators are pushing at the UN’s shipping talks for a universal emissions levy aligned with a 1.5°C pathway, warning that a market-based approach backed by major industrial economies could stall real cuts. Meth Crisis Response: The Pacific Security College says the methamphetamine surge is now driving HIV spread and wider community insecurity, calling for a Pacific Islands Forum-led summit that brings health, police, and communities together. Niue Politics: Niue has confirmed a new four-member Cabinet after Dalton Tagelagi’s re-election, with portfolios spanning security, finance, justice, oceans, and climate—while Tagelagi urges unity after a tight 11-9 leadership vote. Ocean Economy Push: PNG hosted the inaugural Melanesian Ocean Summit, where leaders linked marine protection with fisheries and blue-economy investment, renewing support for the Melanesian Ocean Corridor of Reserves. Regional Context: The Pacific Islands Forum’s August meeting in Palau is flagged as geopolitically charged as China and the US compete for influence.