MP Pay Reform Clash: PM Matthew Wale rejected MPs’ pay rise after PEC increased emoluments, saying his government will replace PEC with a Higher Salaries Commission covering the whole public sector, and he will personally forgo the increase while constitutional reform is targeted for end-2027. Japan Partnership & Indo-Pacific Positioning: In Tokyo, Wale reaffirmed ties with Japan and met PM Sanae Takaichi, with Japan pledging development support (including a ¥3 billion JICA development policy loan) and both sides stressing shared values and deeper cooperation ahead of PALM11. Auditor General Bill Consultations: Consultations on the Auditor General Bill 2026 resumed with the new Public Accounts Committee, with Auditor General David Teika Dennis pushing stronger legal protections to safeguard OAG independence and capacity. Climate Law Fast-Track: MECDM continued consultations with the PM’s Office sub-committee to modernise climate, environment and disaster risk legislation under the GREAT Coalition. Labour Law Capacity Building: Trade union representatives completed a four-day labour law and dispute resolution training aimed at updating Solomon Islands’ ageing labour laws. Infrastructure in Malaita: Two road sections in Malaita were approved for DBST sealing and drainage upgrades under SIRAP2 with World Bank support. Regional Governance & Women’s Leadership: A Pacific women parliamentarians wānanga in Wellington will focus on decision-making, online harm, and gender-based harassment.