Climate Diplomacy: PNG’s PM Marape says Papua New Guinea is ready to partner with Tuvalu on practical climate solutions ahead of COP31, while PNG’s climate negotiators warn the Pacific won’t accept a weak deal and want stronger climate finance and a “just transition” tied to money. Illegal Fishing: Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko calls for stronger international cooperation, tech-driven surveillance and enforcement to tackle IUU fishing, citing PNG’s vast maritime domain and steps like vessel tracking and a Daru MCS command centre. Ocean Conservation Funding: The Bezos Earth Fund announced $25M+ in new ocean conservation grants across five Pacific nations including PNG, aiming to protect large areas of ocean and support marine protection beyond national waters. Disaster & Biodiversity: West New Britain faces severe El Niño-driven wildfires destroying vegetation, gardens and oil palm/coconut plantations, threatening communities, wildlife and air safety. Food Security Under Drought: The Fresh Produce Development Agency set aside K1 million for water cartage and irrigation rollout to help farmers cope with drought impacts. Health & Environment: PNG and Japan launched a five-year research project to eliminate malaria, targeting high-burden provinces like East Sepik. Community Conservation: Torres Strait and PNG rangers held a cross-border ranger knowledge exchange focused on land and sea stewardship, including climate, food and water security, and dugong and turtle management. Education & Access: UPNG’s website has been inaccessible for over a week, prompting a public call to restore reliable access for students and families.