Pacific Islands Forum in Palau: Leaders head to the 55th Pacific Islands Forum (Aug 30–Sept 4) with “Building Economies: Life. Action. Unity,” as China, the US and partners compete for influence over security, ocean resources and minerals—raising the big question of whether island states can turn attention into climate protection, infrastructure and more control of their own economies. Realm of New Zealand talks (Auckland): New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon met with Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau leaders in the first four-way “Realm” meeting, focusing on shared security, economic challenges and regional cooperation ahead of Palau. Action over promises: Cook Islands PM Mark Brown urged a shift from strategy to deliverables—especially climate resilience, regional cooperation and giving Pacific countries more say in decisions that affect them. Niue WWI memorials: Thirty-nine Niuean First World War headstones were delivered to Niue and will be installed across villages, honouring about 150 volunteers (around 4% of the population) who served with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. Kiribati-China/Taiwan diplomacy: Kiribati is considering a constitutional amendment to make it harder for future governments to switch diplomatic recognition back to Taiwan, tightening ties with UN-recognised states and reinforcing its close relationship with China.