Energy & Health Budgets: A new report ahead of the Pacific Islands Forum warns the region’s heavy reliance on imported diesel is draining money that could go to health. With about 80% of energy supply tied to imported oil, households face high power costs and fossil fuel imports can consume 10–25% of GDP; recent global oil shocks could push costs even higher, threatening budgets in places like Fiji and Vanuatu. Pacific Forum Priorities: Smaller island states leaders kicked off the weeklong 55th Pacific Islands Forum in Palau under the BELAU theme, stressing unity and shared action to build resilient economies and improve everyday livelihoods. Climate & Ocean Health: Fiji is pushing for the ocean to sit at the centre of COP31 climate action, linking warming seas, reef decline, and fisheries disruption directly to community health and economic stability. Food Security Under Climate Stress: In Vanuatu, heat, drought, cyclones, and market disruptions are damaging crops and livelihoods, with El Niño raising fears of further rainfall shortfalls. Diplomacy & Access to Care Tech: Taiwan’s return to PIF events in Palau is tied to development cooperation, including “smart healthcare” and a Taiwan-funded AI system for Belau National Hospital. Regional Politics: Leaders’ absences and empty seats are already shaping the tone of the summit, with health and other reasons cited.