Pacific Islands Forum in Palau: Leaders are gathering in Koror, but several key heads of government are missing, including Solomon Islands’ Matthew Wale (returned home after a no-confidence challenge) and others citing health or other reasons—raising questions about regional unity. Climate at the center: Australia’s Anthony Albanese is expected to face pressure to keep 1.5°C within reach ahead of COP31, as Pacific leaders push for stronger climate finance and faster action. Ocean-health link: Fiji is urging the ocean be placed at the heart of climate negotiations, stressing that warming seas, coral decline, and disrupted fisheries directly harm community health and livelihoods. Energy and health costs: A new UNSW report says fossil fuel imports drain Pacific economies (10–25% of output) and that switching to renewables could free money for hospitals and schools. Tuvalu conservation for wellbeing: Tuvalu reports rat eradication on multiple islets and reduced invasive ants and mosquitoes—aimed at helping native wildlife recover and protecting island ecosystems communities rely on. Tuvalu PROPER safeguards: Tuvalu has published the Environmental and Social Commitment Plan and Labour Management Procedure for the Tuvalu PROPER oceanscape project, covering worker health and safety, community health, biodiversity protection, and grievance mechanisms. Diplomacy and Taiwan: Palau is backing Taiwan’s participation in PIF events despite Beijing pressure, including claims of diplomatic disrespect during Taiwan-related talks.