Climate & Food Security: USP researcher Abhineshwar Vinay Prasad is running taro field trials in Fiji, Samoa and Tonga to boost yields while protecting soil health as heat, drought, flooding and saltwater intrusion intensify. Plastics Treaty Implementation: Fiji helped lead Pacific voices in global plastics negotiations, pushing for practical support on finance, capacity building, tech transfer and implementation for small island states. Aviation Upgrade for Samoa: Faleolo International Airport’s redevelopment adds an apron and three aerobridges, plus upgraded passenger systems, aiming to lift travel quality and tourism-linked connectivity. Health Tech in the Pacific: Vanuatu launched the HeartCare app so community health workers can screen heart risk earlier using mobile-recorded vitals and risk flags. Critical Minerals & Geopolitics: US ambassador Jared Novelly says Cook Islands seabed minerals are a top priority, warning Pacific nations about China-linked influence and supply-chain risks. Regional Tourism Data Skills: SPTO’s workshop trained Pacific tourism officers to use tools like SPSS and NVivo for better survey analysis and evidence-based planning. Fuel Measurement Support: Australia’s National Measurement Institute donated fuel trolleys to Pacific partners, helping test pump accuracy and protect fair trade. Policy Watch (Vapes): Samoa’s ministers say there are currently no laws banning vape imports, as Parliament debates health concerns and regulation.