Critical Minerals Diplomacy: Newly appointed US ambassador Jared Novelly says securing Cook Islands seabed critical minerals is now a top priority, warning Pacific states about risks from China’s growing influence and pushing for US company involvement in extraction and supply-chain security. Regional Health Tech: Vanuatu launches the HeartCare mobile app, letting trained community health workers and partners screen for heart disease risk earlier using phone-based checks like blood pressure and cholesterol. Tourism Data Skills: The Pacific Tourism Organisation wraps a five-day Pacific Tourism Data Initiative workshop in Nadi, training tourism officers from Samoa and other islands to use tools like SPSS and NVivo for better, evidence-based tourism planning. Samoa Workforce Pressure: Samoa’s Chamber of Commerce reports labour migration is stressing local businesses, with shortages and higher replacement and wage costs hitting sectors like retail, hospitality and manufacturing. Governance & Appointments: Samoa’s cabinet approves new chairs and board directors across several ministries and State-Owned Enterprises, including roles tied to the Development Bank and scientific research bodies. Public Policy Watch: Samoa’s Deputy PM says there are currently no laws banning vape imports, as Parliament debates health concerns and regulation gaps. Cybersecurity Alert: Samoa and the wider Blue Pacific face rising cyber threats as digital services expand, increasing risks to systems and sensitive data.