Climate Diplomacy in the Pacific: Australia’s pre-COP31 push in Fiji and Tuvalu is drawing criticism for a thin turnout of leaders from outside the region, even as Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. calls it a chance to keep climate finance and resilience on the world agenda. Sea-Level Reality Check: World leaders are set to visit Tuvalu’s main atoll as rising seas threaten a country averaging just two metres above sea level. Palau Trade & Conservation: Palau’s giant clam exporters are watching new national CITES legislation as permits and compliance rules could shape market access, while a proposal would give states more authority over wild clam harvesting. Energy Transition Funding: Australia announced a $7.29m package to boost Pacific renewables rollout, including grid modelling support and workforce development, with a new agreement for Vanuatu’s transition. Logistics Update for Palau: USPS lengthened delivery expectations for packages to and from Palau and other noncontiguous areas starting Oct. 1, citing longer transit realities. Regional Health Security: WHO and partners unveiled a $35.99m Pandemic Fund-backed multi-country project for Western Pacific preparedness, including Palau. Tourism Skills Pipeline: Four young Palauans returned from Four Seasons training in the Maldives with new hospitality skills and confidence to strengthen Palau’s tourism industry. Maritime Safety: A Palau-flagged tanker, MT Honour 25, was retaken by Puntland forces after Somali pirates killed five crew members during the operation.