Maritime Security: Solomon Islands signed the US Shiprider agreement in Honiara aboard the Coast Guard cutter Harriet Lane, setting up joint patrols and enforcement against illegal fishing and transnational crime—while Opposition Leader Manasseh Sogavare warns it could compromise sovereignty and foreign influence grows. Mining Safety & Governance: A landslide at the Gold Ridge gold mine on Guadalcanal killed at least one man (Ashley Olo) and police say it’s still unclear if others are buried; PM Matthew Wale says the government will examine whether mining practices need tighter regulation. Illegal Mining Pressure: Independent MP Peter Shanel Agovaka called for urgent government action on illegal mining at Gold Ridge, urging coordinated enforcement and stronger oversight. Health Program Impact: A world-first scabies mass drug administration program is reported to have sharply reduced scabies and related skin infections in Solomon Islands and Fiji, showing coordinated national treatment can work at scale. Agriculture Support: MALD handed over SBD 1.34m in grants to four indigenous agribusinesses under the GREAT agriculture policy to boost processing, market access and post-harvest work. Leadership Development: WELSI’s Senior Executive Women in Leadership Program (Cohort 8) is underway in Honiara, aiming to advance women into CEO and board roles. Regional Finance & Payments: Central Bank of Solomon Islands and Pacific partners discussed de-risking, correspondent banking links, and a Pacific payments mechanism feasibility study through the Pacific De-Risking Group. Cultural Heritage: The Nambawan Haus Museum opened in Tulagi, with PM Wale and visiting regional partners attending.