ICJ Sovereignty Case: Vanuatu has filed with the International Court of Justice against France over sovereignty of two uninhabited islands—known in Europe as Matthew and Hunter, and in Vanuatu as Umaenupne and Umaeneg—after talks in Paris collapsed, with France now needing to decide whether to take the dispute to the court. Maritime Trade Facilitation: A Port Vila seminar (18–20 August) mapped practical next steps for a Maritime Single Window to speed up and clarify ship clearance, stressing the need for a lead agency, strong coordination, private-sector input, clear scope, and supportive laws—not just new technology. Regional Climate Diplomacy: Pacific SIDS met in Palau to prepare for Pre-COP31 and the 2027 Just Transition conference, with the Cook Islands confirming Prime Minister Mark Brown’s participation and highlighting climate finance as a key focus. Tourism & Investment: The Deeley brothers have taken ownership of Breakas Beach Resort in Port Vila, with the resort set to be rebranded to The Beach, Vanuatu, as they say they will invest while respecting what guests and locals already love. Public Prosecution Cooperation: Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu public prosecutors signed an MoU in Port Vila for capacity building and professional exchange, including prosecutor and legal staff travel supported under Australia’s Law and Justice Sector Program.