Pacific Security: China test-fired a long-range, nuclear-capable submarine-launched ballistic missile into the Pacific, with US and regional governments raising alarms over short notice, transparency, and what it signals about Beijing’s growing nuclear and submarine capabilities. Regional Diplomacy: Leaders including Australia and New Zealand condemned the move as destabilising, while China said it was routine annual training with a dummy warhead and complied with international law. Solomon Islands Policy & Jobs: Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s GREAT Coalition plan pushes a more “productive economy,” including a Local Content Protection Policy for indigenous businesses and efforts to lower electricity tariffs and expand support for agriculture, fisheries, tourism, manufacturing and the digital economy. Infrastructure Quality: CAUSE II and the Ministry of Infrastructure Development commissioned Solomon Islands’ first Universal Testing Machine to strengthen local testing of construction materials like concrete and steel. Ocean & Skills: A “Floating University” trip aboard RV Tangaroa gave early-career Pacific ocean professionals, including a Solomon Islands participant, hands-on experience in ocean science and hazard-relevant research. Health & Education: Japan signed new funding for scholarships and malaria support, including master’s study places in Japan for Solomon Islands officials.