Samoa’s Election Reform: Cabinet has approved the Terms of Reference for a Task Force to oversee an Out-of-Country Voting Pilot Project, aiming to let eligible Samoans overseas vote in future national elections and to recommend Electoral Act 2019 amendments. Pacific Islands Forum Fallout: The 55th PIF Leaders Meeting in Palau is already roiled by missing leaders and China-Taiwan tensions, with China warning of “consequences” after Taiwan’s Foreign Minister attended the opening ceremony. Regional Security Debate: Pacific Network on Globalisation (PANG) is urging leaders to think twice about two proposed regional security deals, warning they could lock in militarisation without enough political control or public oversight. Drug Trafficking Crackdown: Australia is putting forward a $600 million maritime package to tackle illicit drugs moving through the Pacific, with leaders in Palau set to consider the proposal. Samoa in the Spotlight at PIF: Deputy Prime Minister Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molio’o outlined Samoa’s priorities for digital/AI governance, renewable energy, climate leadership, and stronger regional support mechanisms. Court Case Update: Lise Marie Schmidt has pleaded guilty to amended charges linked to statements made after the 2024 death of Professor Caroline Sinavaiana-Gabbard, with parts of the case withdrawn. Culture & Community: The Measina Festival opened with Miss Samoa contestants and cultural performances, while Samoan Traditional Healers are working with government agencies on a framework to safeguard traditional healing knowledge.