Security Diplomacy: Australia’s Deputy PM Richard Marles heads to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (16–17 Aug), meeting PNG’s new defence minister to advance the Pukpuk Treaty, then joining Solomon Islands leaders and ministers to open the Western Border Outpost in the Shortlands. Border & Police Capability: Australia also hands over upgraded RSIPF Tactical Training Centre (SBD 5.5m) and delivers new NIAD maritime vessels to boost police operations across the country’s inter-island waters. Health & Safety: Opposition leader Matthew Wale warns the government to take a “zero risk” approach as repatriation flights raise delta variant concerns, urging clear explanations and ongoing risk checks. Economy & Governance: Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo says real GDP growth is revised to 3.5% as mining, agriculture, tourism and fisheries strengthen while logging declines; he also flags manageable debt and Cabinet approval for a new National Bank with a rural component. Mining Law: A new Mineral Resources Bill 2025 moves to put landowners and communities at the centre via statutory Community Development Agreements and stronger environmental safeguards. Local Development: Small Malaita Constituency Office praises China’s SBD100,000 grant for boats and an engine to improve sea access to markets and services. Sports: OFC backs FIFA’s withdrawal of the Forward Enterprise plan, calling for transparency and good governance. Earthquake: A 5.1 quake struck Solomon Islands, reported by GFZ.