Pacific diplomacy & China-Taiwan tensions: At the Palau-hosted Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, China’s envoy warned of “consequences” after Taiwan’s attendance, but Pacific leaders pushed back on Beijing’s “wolf warrior diplomacy” approach. Workforce & leadership: Fiji’s top public service leadership says managers should understand younger employees’ expectations, not label them “difficult,” as younger staff bring faster work and strong tech skills. Energy investment: EPC Renewables and Cobra signed deals for Fiji’s Yaqara solar-plus-storage build, starting with 22MW solar plus 40MWh batteries, aiming to cut diesel reliance and create jobs. Sugar reform pressure: Government scrutiny is intensifying over sugar subsidies and falling cane tonnage, with calls for structural reform across the value chain and tighter support targeting. Anti-corruption court wrangle: FICAC is back in court over whether it can tender witness statements in the Biman Prasad trial, with defence arguing disclosure and timing issues. Digital transport payments: Fiji launched QR code bus fare payments via the eTransport app, adding cardless options and offline wallet support to boost access. Education payroll controls: The Education Ministry is investigating 13 suspected “ghost” teachers after payroll checks, while teacher salary disruptions continue to ripple through the system. Public health: New Zealand is urged to strengthen its response to Fiji’s rapidly escalating HIV epidemic, framed as a regional health security issue.