US–Solomons ties: Prime Minister Matthew Wale met U.S. Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau in Washington, signing a letter of intent to bring the Peace Corps back to Solomon Islands after more than 25 years, alongside a new US$6m pledge to expand WWII unexploded ordnance removal. Maritime security: Wale also backed a ship-rider deal for U.S. Coast Guard patrols with local police aboard, with the agreement due to be signed in Honiara next week. Pacific security tensions: China’s nuclear-capable missile test in the South Pacific continues to draw regional backlash, with Australia calling it “destabilising” and noting many Pacific states share “strong concerns.” Economy & regulation: Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo ordered immediate enforcement of a 15% export duty on alluvial gold and gold concentrates under HS2022. Parliament & governance: Opposition leader Manasseh Sogavare renewed calls for PM Wale to disclose the number and cost of political appointees, alleging the count has risen to over 70. Business & energy: The Private Sector Advisory Group held its first 2026 meeting, with SICCI pushing for urgent SME Bill action and Electricity Act amendments. Climate diplomacy: Solomon Islands Environment Minister Wayne Ghemu urged Pacific unity ahead of COP31 as climate ministers met in Sydney. Public finance oversight: Auditor General Bill 2026 consultations began, aiming to strengthen the independence and powers of the Office of the Auditor General.