Nakamal Agreement (Australia–Vanuatu): Australia and Vanuatu have finally signed the long-delayed Nakamal security and development pact in Canberra, worth A$500 million, with Port Vila agreeing to consult Australia on any proposed third-party involvement in critical infrastructure and to keep it free from militarisation, foreign interference and unauthorised access—while Australia remains the primary policing and disaster-response partner. Tourism Strategy: Vanuatu also unveiled its Tourism Marketing Strategy 2026–2028 at the 3rd Vanuatu Tourism Market Forum in Port Vila, shifting from recovery to sustainable growth with a focus on diversifying visitor markets and strengthening connectivity. El Niño Watch: SPREP says El Niño is declared and could bring both risks and opportunities across the Pacific, with guidance for communities on what to expect in coming months. On-the-ground culture: ABC iview’s Race Around The World featured a Vanuatu week on Tanna, spotlighting local life and kava traditions through contestant filming. Business pulse: The 2026 Pacific Islands Export Survey is seeing its highest participation in more than a decade, with early signs of diversification and more digital adoption despite tighter access to finance.