Cook Islands Election: Preliminary results point to Prime Minister Mark Brown’s Cook Islands Party winning 12 of 24 seats, with voting delayed on the remote island of Nassau due to bad weather; Brown’s party is expected to retain power, likely needing support from independents to reach the 13-seat majority. Cost of Living & Local Concerns: Ahead of the ballot, voters flagged inflation and the cost of living—fuel, water and power bills, housing, transport and everyday goods—as top worries. Election Watchers: Overseas observers from the Pacific Islands Forum were in Rarotonga to monitor the process, with meetings also held with business leaders. Bird Flu Prep: Pacific governments have asked New Zealand for advice on H5 avian influenza as the virus spreads in Australia and New Zealand, with wildlife seen as the biggest risk. US-Pacific Diplomacy: US President Joe Biden met Pacific leaders and announced recognition for the Cook Islands and Niue, alongside new infrastructure plans including internet connectivity. Sport & Youth: Oceania Football Confederation official Michelle Paiti named chef de mission for Team Cook Islands at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. Environment Governance: SPREP’s Executive Board meeting in Samoa underscored the “triple planetary crises” and the need for stronger regional climate and pollution action.