Vanuatu sovereignty push: Vanuatu has filed an application at the International Court of Justice against France over sovereignty and a maritime boundary covering Umaenupne (Matthew) and Umaeneag (Hunter) islands, after talks stalled—next step depends on France’s consent. Pacific climate focus: At the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau, leaders wrapped with the “Belau Declaration,” calling for urgent climate action to keep warming within 1.5°C and setting out new regional security and renewable-energy plans, with Vanuatu listed as a future host (2030). China–Taiwan tension at PIF: Taiwan’s foreign minister attended as a development partner while China warned of “consequences,” and several Pacific leaders—including Vanuatu—skipped the summit amid interference concerns. Tourism connections: Air Niugini is sponsoring Papua New Guinea’s Hiri Hanenamo quest with return tickets for winners and runners-up to Fiji, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands, aiming to boost tourism and cultural exchange. Health support: China’s fifth medical aid team for Vanuatu has departed Beijing, bringing radiology/nuclear medicine and public health specialists to advance the Vanuatu-China Medical Center. Deals for travellers: Solomon Airlines launched an earlybird sale from Brisbane to Santo (Vanuatu) plus Honiara and Munda, with one-way fares from AUD$429. On the water: The Melbourne to Vanuatu Yacht Race is set to return in 2028, with a 1,885-nautical-mile course finishing in Vanuatu.