Vanuatu Politics: Vanuatu PM Jotham Napat will meet President Nikenike Vurobaravu this week to challenge a controversial presidential pardon granted on the eve of Independence Day for a convicted rapist; Napat says the government will request the pardon be revoked and is also reviewing the President’s pardoning powers to set clearer criteria for future cases. Regional Security Diplomacy: Pacific Islands Forum foreign ministers in Suva failed to agree on a joint response to China’s recent nuclear-capable missile test, with New Zealand’s Winston Peters saying two members blocked a statement; the issue now heads to leaders in Palau later this month. Pacific Regionalism & Defence: Australia’s Penny Wong backed Pacific-led security discussions at the Forum, pointing to Solomon Islands’ push for a regional security arrangement and noting Australia’s existing alliances and agreements with PNG, Fiji, Vanuatu, Tuvalu and Naoero. US Visa Policy for Pacificers: The US has made its $20,000 refundable visa bond permanent for selected B1/B2 travellers from Fiji, PNG, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu, aimed at reducing overstay risks. PNG–Vanuatu State Ties: PNG and Vanuatu broke ground in Port Vila on a new PNG chancery, with Vanuatu donating land and pledging VT100 million to deepen cooperation on stability, infrastructure and climate policy. Ocean & Fisheries: The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency delivered a second 2026 US$50.42m payout under the US Tuna Treaty, supporting Pacific island economies and treaty fisheries access. Environment & Research: Pristine Seas begins a Samoa expedition surveying marine life across newly protected areas, with findings meant to strengthen Samoa’s ocean protection plan and data baseline.