Vanuatu-France Diplomacy: Vanuatu is framing its dispute over the uninhabited Matthew and Hunter (Umaenupne and Umaeneg) islands as a “David versus Goliath” sovereignty fight, with France controlling the islands since 1965 and fears it could spark wider claims across the world. Tourism Data for Planning: SPTO and the Vanuatu Tourism Office have released Vanuatu’s 2025 International Visitor Survey results, showing strong performance driven by culture, nature and adventure, with 54% first-time visitors. El Niño Watch: Vanuatu has declared an El Niño watch, warning of warmer ocean conditions, uneven and reduced rainfall, and potential water and agriculture impacts, with early preparations urged. Regional Culture & Travel Demand: Tourism Solomons has backed “Aelan Riddim 26” in Honiara, featuring artists from Vanuatu and across Melanesia—another reminder of how music festivals keep regional travel moving. Cruise Market Momentum: Norwegian Cruise Line extended its South Pacific season with more close-to-home itineraries, highlighting continued demand from Australians for multi-island trips. Border Security: Pacific customs leaders meet in Nadi to boost cooperation against drug trafficking and organised crime—an issue that can directly affect visitor confidence and safe travel.