Wharf progress in Tongareva: Palau-linked Pacific partners visited Tongareva to brief residents on a safe, reliable Omoka wharf, with PM Mark Brown, US Ambassador Jared Novelly and NZ High Commissioner Catherine Graham stressing community-first planning. El Niño pressure on water and ports: A Cook Islands columnist warns the coming El Niño could intensify drought and heavy rain, making wharfs, runways and especially water security the make-or-break priorities for Pa Enua islands. Palau at UNGA on climate and statehood: President Surangel Whipps Jr. told the UN story of Helen Island’s erosion and argued small states can’t be “drowned out,” pushing for stronger action and recognition of sovereignty amid sea-level rise. Sea-level rise declaration: UN delegates adopted a text affirming countries should keep statehood and UN membership even if rising seas make parts uninhabitable. Ocean monitoring funding: Canada, the EU and partners launched the OceanEye alliance, pledging at least €211m to keep global ocean observation running—key for forecasting and coastal protection. Palau health tech pilot: Palau launched a community monitoring trial for 25 residents using wearables to alert family and clinics when health or inactivity signals appear. Energy waste spotlight: A Palau government cooling-system inspection found failed equipment and pumps running flat-out, pointing to electricity and diesel savings from repairs. Shipping security push: India and Liberia backed a new group to improve safety and security for commercial shipping and seafarers amid attacks. Shadow fleet update: A report says Barbados and Palau removed Russian shadow-tankers from their registries, while Russia keeps adding ships under its flag despite crackdowns.