Pacific Islands Forum in Palau: Samoa’s Deputy Prime Minister led bilateral talks with partners including New Zealand, Chile, Spain, Japan, Singapore, the UK, Canada, the EU and China, pushing Samoa’s priorities on digital/AI governance, renewable energy, climate leadership and stronger regional support. Regional security debate: The Pacific Network on Globalisation warned leaders against two proposed security deals, saying they could lock in foreign military access without enough local control or oversight. China–Taiwan fallout: The summit opened amid major absences and fresh anger from Beijing over Taiwan’s participation, with Samoa named among leaders reportedly not attending. Samoa governance: Cabinet approved the terms of reference for an Out-of-Country Voting Task Force to pilot overseas voting and recommend Electoral Act changes. Health and culture: Samoa’s traditional healers are working with government agencies on a national framework to protect traditional knowledge, while the Measina Festival spotlighted Miss Samoa contestants and cultural performances. Sports: Lushavel Stickland heads into the women’s 50m backstroke finals after winning bronze in butterfly. Local education: USP Samoa Campus and Savaii Centre drew thousands at Open Day, themed “Where Culture Meets Excellence.”