MSG Leadership: Vanuatu’s Dr Anna Naupa has been appointed the first woman and first ni-Vanuatu to lead the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Secretariat in Port Vila, ending a 40-year wait for Vanuatu to hold the top post and sending a message on regional leadership for young ni-Vanuatu girls. Air Vanuatu CEO Change: Air Vanuatu has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Joseph Laloyer, who is recognised for steering the airline through major fleet and restructuring periods. Maritime Security (Solomons): Solomon Islands authorities intercepted the Belize-flagged cargo vessel MV WEALTH in Renbel Province, with suspicions of drug trafficking, tobacco smuggling and other transnational maritime crime, after intelligence-led monitoring since April. Pacific Security Talks: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale floated a Pacific-wide security agreement idea, arguing regional issues should be led by Pacific nations first, while also reviewing security arrangements involving China. Australia–Vanuatu Tension: Australia’s Pacific Engagement Visa ballot opens 1 July, but Vanuatu is left off the eligible list for 2026–27, with critics calling it leverage tied to the Nakamal Agreement. Port Vila City Updates: Port Vila City Council announced free Wi-Fi on the waterfront and new solar-powered seafront lighting, alongside a 2026–2030 strategic plan focused on infrastructure, innovation and recovery.