Explosives & Safety: Multinational teams finished Australia-led Operation Render Safe in Rabaul, destroying 330 World War II ordnance items and cutting risks to communities. Superannuation Access: Nasfund launched mobile member service booths in Port Moresby, using Starlink to enable on-the-spot ID cards, statements and benefit checks at workplaces and remote sites. Agribusiness Investment: PM James Marape welcomed Malaysian interest to expand PNG palm oil, livestock and downstream processing, aiming for jobs and stronger food security. Biodiversity Funding: PNG secured Global Biodiversity Framework Fund approval for a community-led project to protect 700,000 hectares in three Highlands provinces via CEPA and FAO. Mining & Sovereignty: Bougainville revoked Bougainville Copper Limited’s Panguna exploration licence and granted a new 25-year lease to Bougainville Minerals, escalating resource-control stakes. Health Funding Pressure: WHO and UNAIDS warned HIV gains are at risk as funding cuts hit prevention, testing and community-led services, including in PNG. El Niño Readiness: SPREP urged Pacific communities to prepare as El Niño is underway, while PNG’s disaster minister flagged drought watch/alert impacts and early interventions. Clean Transport: PNG launched its first EV pilot in Port Moresby for light vehicles, trucks and buses, with plans to expand to Lae. Education & Skills: Unitech opened a 100-bed female dorm in Lae to support women in technical fields, and DWU will host the 2026 national university soccer games in Madang. Maritime & Trade Infrastructure: PNG Ports pushed ahead with a major 30-year upgrade plan, backed by Australia and European partners, to modernise ports and boost national logistics. Anti-Money Laundering: PNG Forest Authority hosted AML/CTF/CPF coordination talks, linking forestry reforms and timber legality standards to reduce laundering risks. Women in Tech Careers: A PNG UoT graduate returned as a site clerk helping deliver the new female dormitory project. Regional Shipping Risk: Reports say Iran plans an “insurance fee” for Strait of Hormuz transits after a US ceasefire window expires, adding uncertainty for shipping routes.