Pacific Security & Tech: China’s submarine-launched ballistic missile test into the Western Pacific has reignited regional concern, with the dummy warhead reportedly landing west of the Solomon Islands and analysts warning it’s a pointed signal amid shifting Pacific defence ties. Infrastructure Lab Capacity: Solomon Islands’ Ministry of Infrastructure Development has commissioned its first Universal Testing Machine under CAUSE II, boosting local testing of concrete and steel for safer roads, bridges and buildings. Ocean Science Skills: Three Pasifika students, including a Solomon Islands participant, spent 26 days aboard the RV Tangaroa “Floating University,” gaining hands-on training in seabed mapping and marine/climate research. Agriculture & Food Security: WorldFish and the Kastom Gaden Association trained 36 Western Province secondary students in organic farming and nutrition, linking school learning to stronger household food security. Regional Research & Data: SPTO’s Pacific Tourism Data Initiative workshop in Nadi trained tourism officers from Solomon Islands and others in data analysis and report writing to improve evidence-based tourism planning. Mining Policy Support: PNG has offered Solomon Islands its mining policy experience to help shape a modern resource regime that maximises local benefits while staying investor-friendly. Health & Leadership Funding: Japan has signed grants worth about SBD$14.6m for malaria support and postgraduate scholarships for Solomon Islands officials.