Natadola Cable Landing: Fiji’s Environment Ministry says the EMP application for beach manholes and trenching tied to the Pacific Connect Natadola cable landing was declined over community concerns and weak public consultation, even though other project parts were approved. Taveuni “Living Classroom”: Taveuni is hosting an education programme that turns village life and nature trails into lessons on culture, sustainability, biodiversity and local livelihoods for Australian students. Tourism Funding & Growth: Fiji posted its highest-ever June arrivals (98,522), with holiday travel leading and new resorts and routes helping drive demand. Connectivity & Safety: Fiji Airways cancelled some regional and domestic flights due to volcanic ash from Vanuatu’s Manaro Voui, while lawmakers also pushed for tougher checks on overcrowding on inter-island vessels. Climate Diplomacy: Tuvalu urged leaders to see the “human face” of climate change firsthand as Fiji and Tuvalu prepare for pre-COP events. Health & Travel Impact: Fiji’s conjoined twins Di Cecea and Jesipeli Kikau are set to leave for Saudi Arabia for life-changing separation surgery, with Fiji covering a medical escort. Regional Tourism Collaboration: SPTO called for stronger cross-sector partnerships to boost Pacific tourism through better air and sea connectivity.