Skilled Labour Pathways: Japan says its ageing population and agriculture worker shortages are creating openings for highly skilled Pacific workers, while warning that immigration must be managed carefully to address local job and social-safety concerns. Climate Diplomacy in the Pacific: Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal met Tuvalu and Tonga leaders during Pre-COP talks, focusing on shared climate risks and coastal engineering lessons. Tonga Football Infrastructure: Tonga broke ground at Veitongo on a TOP$2.5m FIFA-funded artificial pitch, with construction due to start soon and completion targeted for March 2027. Pacific Energy Security: Australia announced a $7.29m package to speed renewables rollout across the region, including grid modelling support and workforce development. Disaster Readiness Upgrade: Tonga commissioned a new $15m weather and disaster management centre in Tongatapu to centralise forecasting, emergency communications and early warnings. Health Milestone: Tonga completed its first hip and knee replacement surgeries at Vaiola Hospital, with plans for up to 100 joint replacements next year. Maritime Security & Fisheries: Australia and partners ran Operation Nasse to deter illegal fishing and boost regional maritime coordination across Pacific waters. Ocean Conservation Funding: Bezos Earth Fund pledged over $25m for ocean protection across Tonga and four other Pacific nations, targeting conservation over 625,000 square miles. Roadworks Friction: A former Tongan minister criticised a full closure of Taufaʻāhau Road during preparations for the King’s NEMO opening ceremony.