Penrhyn/Tongareva Port Feasibility: US Ambassador Jared Novelly says Washington is not discussing a military base at Penrhyn, pushing back on earlier claims while joining PM Mark Brown and NZ High Commissioner for the Omoka Wharf feasibility and planning phase (NZ$101.5m). Ocean Governance & China: Cook Islands hosted China’s BBNJ special envoy Yi Xianliang in Suva, with briefings on Beijing’s bid to host the permanent BBNJ secretariat and discussions with Pacific heads of mission. LiDAR Planning Tool: LiDAR Cook Islands has gone live, with 3D mapping of land and near-shore areas launched by PM Brown and partners to support planning. Deep Sea Mining Protest: Greenpeace occupied New Zealand’s state-owned research vessel Tangaroa after deep-sea exploration for an American company, warning against Pacific mining and NZ complicity. Climate at the UN: Pacific leaders used the UN General Assembly to stress sea-level rise as present reality and demand scaled climate finance and loss-and-damage support. Pacific Media Summit: At PINA’s Savusavu summit, leaders urged independent, responsible journalism and warned against AI-driven misinformation. Cook Islands Football: The men’s national team has been named for friendlies vs Tahiti (Sept 26) and a return match (Sept 30) under new coach Rhys Ruka. Tourism Industry: CITIC re-elected Liana Scott as president for 2026/27, prioritising workforce, immigration, policy reform and destination sustainability.