Communications Governance: Tonga officially launched and commissioned the Communications Commission Tonga (CCT) headquarters, with Crown Prince Tupouto‘a ‘Ulukalala stressing independent regulation to boost fairness, transparency, competition and consumer protection. Climate Resilience Funding: Tonga received a TOP$114,168 parametric insurance payout from PCRIC to support early drought preparedness in the Niuas, with discussion on expanding parametric coverage to critical infrastructure. Regional Political Coordination: Pacific Islands Forum Troika leaders met in Suva ahead of the 55th Leaders Meeting in Palau, focusing on Suva Agreement implementation and broader regional architecture reforms, with Tonga’s PM Lord Fakafanua at the table. Fisheries Diplomacy: The 25th Forum Fisheries Committee Ministerial Meeting wrapped in Wellington, with ministers backing priorities for Pacific fisheries cooperation and confirming leadership for 2026–2027. Deep-Sea Mining Legal Fight: NORI and TOML (TMC subsidiaries) filed cases at ITLOS to block an ISA compliance investigation, arguing due process and non-discrimination breaches as contract deadlines loom. Electoral Integrity Watch (Zambia link): Tonse Pamodzi observers in Dubai raised concerns about extra presidential ballot papers and the handling of ballot security features ahead of Zambia’s August 13 election. Public Health Tech (Vanuatu): Vanuatu rolled out the HeartCare app to enable community screenings for early detection of heart disease risk. Aid Pressure: OECD warned Pacific small island states face steep cuts as global aid drops to the lowest level since 2014, with Tonga and peers singled out for provider concentration risk.