Critical Minerals & Sovereignty: A new US executive order on securing defense supply chains is pushing faster critical-mineral development, and American Samoa’s “No” stance on potential BOEM deep-sea/lease exploration is framed as a way to influence where investment and jobs flow. Defence Industry & Air Links: Australia’s Treaties Committee is holding public hearings on NATO/NSPO access and on proposed air services agreements with Cambodia, Kiribati and Nauru, including safety, security, customs and competition impacts. Fisheries & Ocean Governance: Pacific foreign ministers in Suva urged stronger fisheries protection, backed a 2026–2035 regional fisheries strategy, and called for member-led ocean stewardship and maritime boundary clarity. Tuna Industry Leadership: The Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA) opened applications for a new CEO to lead the tuna fisheries office, with a focus on sustainable management, governance and maximising economic returns. Deep-Sea Mining Rules: The UN seabed mining regulator (ISA) extended a disputed exploration contract tied to Nauru Ocean Resources Inc., while still failing to finalise commercial mining rules—sparking renewed concerns about precedent and enforcement. Regional Security Tensions: China’s nuclear-capable missile test into the Pacific has heightened militarisation fears, with Pacific leaders struggling to agree on a unified condemnation despite individual criticism. Tourism Trade Push: The Solomon Islands is using Australia’s Treasures of the South Pacific roadshow to keep South Pacific destinations visible to hundreds of travel consultants, including Nauru and other smaller island markets. Name Change Watch: Nauru’s rebrand to the Republic of Naoero and “Nauruans” to “dei-Naoero” is making headlines as the microstate looks for bolder ways to stay on the map.