New Caledonia Politics: Virginie Ruffenach was elected president of the New Caledonia Congress on July 10 after forming a coalition, with her priority set on rebuilding economic tools, repairing social fabric and restoring trust amid a divided pro-independence/loyalist bloc. Pacific Diplomacy: Three French overseas MPs, including New Caledonia’s Nicolas Metzdorf, are urging France to toughen its response to Azerbaijan’s statements about the territories—calling for the Azerbaijani ambassador to be summoned and for economic sanctions. Vanuatu-France Dispute: Vanuatu says it will escalate its long-running sovereignty fight with France over the Matthew and Hunter islands to international legal action after talks failed, arguing the islands determine rights to surrounding waters and resources. Energy & Industry: The IEA warns critical minerals supply chains are becoming more concentrated and fragile, with China and Indonesia driving most refined output growth and export controls adding risk. Regional Conservation: Solomon Islands has joined the Melanesian Ocean Corridor of Reserves (MOCOR), expanding a transboundary marine protected area across Melanesia. Business/Travel: Carnival Adventure’s Vanuatu–New Caledonia cruise had a Mystery Island stop cancelled after a technical issue delayed departure from Port Vila; guests received refunds and onboard credit.