Pacific Defence & Tech Diplomacy: Telecom Fiji has partnered with Singapore’s Toppan Ecquaria to use AI and digital government tools on Fiji’s telecom infrastructure, aiming to build automation platforms and train local talent. Regional Security Shock: China’s nuclear-capable long-range submarine missile test in the South Pacific sparked fast condemnation from Australia, New Zealand, Japan and others, with leaders warning it undermines the “zone of peace” and lacks transparency—even as Beijing calls it routine training. Fiji’s Maritime Planning: The Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division launched its Strategic Plan 2035, “The Headmark,” outlining upgrades in surveillance, patrol response, hydrography, logistics and emerging maritime technologies. Digital Heritage: Fiji will digitise more than 60,000 Girmitiya records, letting people search online by names, ship and arrival year instead of manual archive visits. Sustainable Farming Research: A USP researcher is developing climate-smart taro farming methods, using field trials in Fiji and improving models to protect yields as soils and weather patterns worsen. EV Safety Rules: Fiji’s LTA is calling for stricter rules and permits for disposing high-voltage hybrid and electric vehicle batteries to reduce public health and environmental risks. Skills for the Digital Economy: Australia opened the Pacific Australia Skills Hub in Suva and committed $145m for TVET Centres of Excellence to support Fiji’s digital transformation and job-focused training.