New Caledonia Politics: Pro-France Virginie Ruffenach has been elected president of the Congress after a governance deal that hinges on support from the Eveil Océanien “kingmakers” bloc, shifting the institutional balance as anti-independence parties regain control of the assembly’s key role. Cyclone Preparedness: Pacific countries are being urged to stay vigilant through the rest of cyclone season, with warnings to follow daily updates from national meteorological services as even weaker systems can bring damaging rain. Maritime Security Procurement: France has ordered 24 new coastal patrol vessels for its Maritime Gendarmerie, with five earmarked for overseas territories including New Caledonia, as deliveries run through the late 2020s. Satellite Connectivity Trial: OPT New Caledonia is partnering with Lynk to test direct-to-device satellite services in areas without terrestrial mobile coverage, with a new trial planned for end-2026. Climate & Ocean Risk: A WMO report flags hotter, more acidic seas across the South-West Pacific, with marine heatwaves disrupting fisheries and rising sea levels threatening low-lying communities. Regional Business & Innovation: A Pacific Innovation Forum in Vanuatu spotlighted climate and environment pitches, with eco-concrete and grass-based soil stabilisation among the top winners. Sports Hosting: Papua New Guinea is set to host the OFC U16 Men’s Championship in Port Moresby, with venue readiness and logistics front and centre for teams including New Caledonia. Energy Investment (Regional): Palau’s solar-plus-storage project is expanding with a major battery augmentation backed by Australian financing, deepening the shift away from diesel.