Pacific Islands Forum in Palau: Leaders from 18 member states and partners will meet Aug. 30–Sept. 4 under “Building Economies: Life. Action. Unity,” with climate resilience, ocean stewardship and energy security on the agenda as major powers compete for influence. Taiwan’s Pacific outreach: Taiwan’s foreign minister toured Palau’s “Pacific Prosperity Exhibit,” highlighting low-carbon energy, marine sustainability and a “Blue Pacific” 2050 strategy—while China objects to Taiwan’s participation. Marshall Islands diplomacy: Marshall Islands FM Kitlang Kabua reiterated support for Taiwan’s inclusion in the UN and condemned “external intimidation” that threatens regional peace. Climate mobility push: New Zealand-backed funding launched a Pacific Climate Mobility Partnerships Programme to help islands plan for displacement and planned relocation as hazards and sea-level rise intensify. Shipping emissions fight: A Majuro-based maritime center criticized Japan’s IMO proposal as too weak on greenhouse-gas cuts, while the US is expected to push for softer rules at IMO talks. Food security under heat: Communities in Vanuatu report hotter, drier conditions and cyclones damaging crops and livelihoods, with El Niño raising drought risks. Weather watch: NWS says Tropical Depression 20W and Invest 91W pose no direct threat to the Marianas, Marshall Islands or FSM as they track northward.