MSG Regional Talks: Vanuatu Prime Minister Matthew Wale joined Fiji, PNG and Solomon Islands leaders at an MSG meeting in Nadi on the margins of Pre-COP31, with West Papua on the agenda and leaders discussing how to strengthen MSG coordination. Tuvalu Climate Warning: Tuvalu’s climate minister Maina Talia told visiting leaders COP31 must not become “another talk shop,” as the atoll nation faces sea-level threats with land averaging just two metres above sea level. Australia Pre-COP Scrutiny: Australia’s climate diplomacy is under pressure over costs and a thin turnout of non-Pacific leaders; Energy Minister Chris Bowen defended the event’s outcomes after Albanese departed Fiji. Vanuatu Climate Push: Vanuatu’s Ralph Regenvanu urged urgent emissions cuts, citing UN findings and the ICJ’s view that climate responsibilities go beyond domestic emissions. Vanuatu-France Sovereignty Row: Vanuatu condemned a French National Assembly member’s letter using “New Hebrides” and proposing French administration over islands, calling it neo-colonial and racist. Renewables Deal for Vanuatu: Australia announced a $7.29m renewables package and a new MoU to boost Vanuatu’s renewable energy workforce, grid planning and project delivery. Vanuatu Constitutional Call: President Nikenike Vurobaravu marked Constitution Day by urging leaders and citizens to uphold democracy, the rule of law and national unity. Sports (Regional Pride): Vanuatu won the women’s MSG Prime Minister’s Cup in Suva on penalties, while Fiji took the men’s title 1-0 over Vanuatu.