Penrhyn Port Deal: The US and New Zealand have pledged US$60 million to upgrade the Penrhyn (Tongareva) port on a former WWII base, with Washington putting in US$50m and NZ$17.5m, and NZ set to manage construction—aimed at safer landings, better services and stronger links for the northern Cook Islands, while also tying into the US “critical minerals” push. Seabed Mining Backlash: Cook Islands PM Mark Brown says his government will stay with science and caution, keeping exploration and research separate from any move to extraction until the answers are in, as Pacific groups warn stronger rules could trigger costly investor disputes. Pacific Security Debate: PANG is urging leaders to reject two proposed regional security agreements, warning they could lock in militarisation without enough local control or public oversight. Energy and Digital Push: The US announced more than US$150m for Pacific partners, including a proposed US$60m regional energy security initiative and support for fuel storage, grid stability, digital infrastructure and law enforcement. Climate Finance to Communities: The Pacific Resilience Facility is taking 14 community projects to pre-COP events and COP31, with funding focused on water security, food production, coastal restoration, sanitation and renewable energy. Weather Update: Strong wind warnings for the Southern Cooks have been lifted, but swells remain a concern for exposed coastlines. Sports & Culture: Cook Islands pickleball players won the nation’s first international gold medals in Da Nang, while Miss Cook Islands Tiare Henry-Anguna showcased Manihiki-inspired pearl heritage at Miss World 2026.