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Solomon Islands Acting Prime Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo received a delegation from the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) during a courtesy visit on July 24, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening political party exchanges and bilateral cooperation. The delegation was led by Zhao Hongtao, deputy director general of the CPC International Department, who is visiting the Solomon Islands to deepen engagement between political parties in the two countries. During the meeting, Lilo and Zhao discussed opportunities to share experiences in party development and governance while acknowledging the differences between the Solomon Islands' multi-party political system and China's single-party system. Lilo said the Solomon Islands could learn from the CPC's experience in governance and China's economic development. "What matters is that Solomon Islands parties can learn from the success of the CPC in governing and building China into one of the successful and strong nations in the world today," he said. Lilo also said he admired China's development strategies and reaffirmed the Solomon Islands' commitment to the One China Principle, adding that China's territorial integrity should be respected. Beyond political cooperation, Lilo said the Solomon Islands was keen to learn from China's economic growth and its success in lifting millions of people out of poverty. Zhao shared the CPC's experience in governance and reiterated the party's willingness to support political party development in the Solomon Islands while expressing respect for the country's multi-party system. He said the CPC's achievements were reflected in China's long-term political stability and its transformation from an agrarian economy into the world's second-largest economy. "Our vision is to share our experience and success to help others succeed in their aspirations and to contribute towards building a harmonious world for everyone," Zhao said. The visit forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen political dialogue and cooperation between the Solomon Islands and China following the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2019.

Canadian explorer Kalo Gold Corp. has confirmed widespread gold mineralisation at its 100%-owned Vatu Aurum Project in Fiji, with laboratory fire assays returning grades of up to 8.78 grams per tonne (g/t) gold, reinforcing the company's geological model ahead of a new phase of exploration. The assay results from the Wainikoro prospect confirmed that surface gold occurrences are sourced from mineralised bedrock, strengthening the company's interpretation of a structurally controlled low-sulphidation epithermal gold system. Kalo said the certified fire assays validated its previously reported detectORE field screening results, with laboratory analyses generally matching or exceeding field estimates. Surface sampling returned assays of 8.78 g/t Au, 4.78 g/t Au, 4.44 g/t Au, 3.41 g/t Au and 2.03 g/t Au, while trench sampling produced selective point assays of up to 2.93 g/t Au. Continuous channel sampling averaged 0.28 g/t Au over 14 metres, confirming continuity of mineralisation beneath surface exposures. Company President and Chief Executive Officer Terry Tucker said the latest results significantly increased confidence in the geological model being developed at Wainikoro. "These certified fire assay results provide independent confirmation of the gold identified through our detectORE field screening and, importantly, demonstrate that mineralisation extends into bedrock beneath the surface occurrences we have been mapping," Tucker said. "Each phase of exploration is building on the last, allowing us to progressively reduce geological uncertainty before advancing to the next phase of work," he added. The company said the results confirmed multiple styles of gold mineralisation, including chalcedonic quartz veins, silicified volcanic rocks and hydrothermal breccias developed along the Nubu Graben structural corridor. Eleven surface samples returned grades above 0.5 g/t gold, indicating mineralisation is distributed across the target area rather than confined to isolated occurrences. Kalo has engaged Fender Geophysics Pty Ltd to undertake controlled-source audio-frequency magnetotellurics (CSAMT), induced polarisation and gravity surveys at Wainikoro. The surveys are expected to define the subsurface geometry of the mineralised system and support target prioritisation for future exploration. The company said the geophysical programme would integrate geological mapping, geochemistry, trenching and structural interpretation into a single exploration model aimed at refining future drilling targets. Kalo Gold is advancing the 367-square-kilometre Vatu Aurum Project on Vanua Levu, where exploration has identified multiple low-sulphidation epithermal gold targets across a northeast-trending mineralised corridor.

The upstream and downstream operators of the Papua LNG Project have been issued amended environmental permits by the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA), following more than seven months of consultation between the regulator and project operators. The amended permits were presented on May 29, 2026, following extensive discussions involving CEPA, upstream operator TotalEnergies EP PNG Limited and downstream operator ExxonMobil PNG Antelope Limited. According to CEPA, the amendments reflect changes to both the upstream and downstream project designs and are expected to reduce potential environmental and community impacts associated with the development. Michael Wau, executive director of CEPA's Non-Renewable Resources Environmental Protection Wing, said environmental permits are living documents that must be reviewed and updated to strengthen environmental protection, water resource management and biodiversity conservation. "That is exactly what TotalEnergies EP PNG Limited and ExxonMobil PNG Antelope Limited have done by reviewing the project and requesting amendments to the environmental permits," Wau said. The original environmental permits, EP-L3 (1008) and EP-L3 (1030), were issued in March and September 2025. They covered a range of planned activities, including the construction and operation of a Catenary Anchor Leg Mooring (CALM) buoy system and associated marine infrastructure. Since the permits were issued, revisions to the project design have eliminated the need for several originally planned components, including the CALM buoy system, marine exclusion zones and related infrastructure. Wau said the changes would significantly reduce environmental impacts, particularly in Caution Bay. "There will be minimal environmental impact as the condensate pipeline, which was initially permitted to traverse Caution Bay, will instead connect with the Santos-owned Kumul Marine Terminal floating storage and offloading facility," he said. According to CEPA, the amendments will deliver several environmental and community benefits, including: • Avoiding extended travel times for local communities caused by marine exclusion zones; • Preventing disruptions to artisanal and subsistence fishing activities; and • Protecting sensitive marine and coastal habitats, including mangroves, intertidal zones and benthic environments. "This is a great win for the environment and the people," Wau said. TotalEnergies EP PNG Limited said it looks forward to continuing its collaboration with CEPA and other government agencies to ensure the Papua LNG Project is delivered in a sustainable, responsible and efficient manner. "We are committed to delivering Papua LNG to the highest environmental standards in close partnership with CEPA," the company said. ExxonMobil PNG Antelope Limited Chairman and Managing Director Dinesh Sivasamboo thanked CEPA for its review and approval of the amendments. "We greatly value this collaboration and the constructive engagement throughout the process to ensure that the Papua LNG Downstream Project is delivered responsibly and in full compliance with the amended environmental permit," Sivasamboo said. The amended permits are expected to support the continued development of the Papua LNG Project while reducing environmental impacts and preserving access to marine resources for surrounding communities.

The Solomon Islands has completed the first phase of a Chinese-backed mini solar power project that installed renewable energy systems across 25 constituencies, with a second phase set to begin once financing arrangements are finalised by China. The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) announced on Monday that Phase 1 of the Mini Solar Power Project had been successfully completed under a cooperation agreement signed on 21 August 2025 between the ministry, the Chinese Embassy in the Solomon Islands and Ever Exceed SI Company Ltd. The ministry said installations had been verified and project documentation completed across all participating constituencies nationwide. Phase 1 involved the supply and installation of 6.2-kilowatt-hour and 5-kilowatt-hour solar power systems valued at more than SBD 800,000. The project covered 25 constituencies: East Makira, West Makira, Central Makira, Ulawa Ugi, East Kwaio, West Kwaio, East Are'Are, West Are'Are, Small Malaita, East Malaita, Central Kwara'ae, West Kwara'ae, North Malaita, Lau Mbaelelea, Baegu Asifola, Fataleka, Aoke Langalanga, South Malaita, East Guadalcanal, Central Guadalcanal, North Guadalcanal, West Guadalcanal, South Guadalcanal, Shortlands, and Gizo-Kolombangara. MECDM said the project represents a significant step towards expanding access to renewable energy, strengthening community resilience and advancing climate action across the country. It also reflects growing practical cooperation between the Solomon Islands and China and supports the government's commitment to sustainable development and low-carbon energy. Phase 2 will commence once financial arrangements are finalised by the People's Republic of China. The next stage is expected to extend the programme to additional communities and strengthen the country's long-term energy security. "The completion of Phase 1 demonstrates the power of partnership and shared vision," the ministry's permanent secretary said. "We look forward to the timely commencement of Phase 2, which will further illuminate our communities and strengthen our cooperation." The ministry also thanked the Chinese Embassy and Ever Exceed SI Company Ltd for their continued collaboration and technical support throughout the implementation of the project.

Fiji has launched the Blue Economy and Green Community Development (BE-GREEN) Programme, a six-year initiative aimed at strengthening rural livelihoods, restoring ecosystems and building climate resilience across Vanua Levu. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka launched the program in Koronatoga Village, Cakaudrove, describing it as a major step toward sustainable development and inclusive economic growth. Rabuka said the initiative would increase the productivity of Vanua Levu's agriculture and marine sectors through sustainable resource management and biodiversity-friendly practices. "The goal is clear: to boost rural incomes, restore ecosystems and enhance resilience, while complementing existing government and development partner initiatives in Vanua Levu, including the World Bank-supported Na Vualiku Project," he said. The program will support stronger farming and fishing industries, improve market access, encourage rural entrepreneurship, restore ecosystems, and expand economic opportunities for women and young people. Funded through the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the initiative will operate across the three provinces of Vanua Levu. GEF funding is expected to benefit about 3,500 households, while IFAD investments will focus on six districts in Cakaudrove Province—East Wailevu, Savusavu, Navatu, Koroalau, Vaturova and Naweni. Approximately 3,050 subsistence and semi-commercial farming, fishing and handicraft-producing households will receive direct support, with priority given to women, youth and Indigenous communities. Combined GEF and IFAD investments are expected to benefit around 39,300 people. Rabuka said the program adopts an integrated approach linking environmental conservation with economic development through sustainable production, improved access to markets and finance, and stronger institutions. "Our land and ocean are not only our heritage; they are the foundation of a resilient and prosperous future for the people of Vanua Levu," he said. Speaking at the launch, IFAD Associate Vice-President for the Department of Country Operations Donal Brown said the initiative represents a renewed commitment to helping Fiji's rural communities adapt to climate change while creating sustainable economic opportunities. Brown said Pacific communities face increasing challenges from climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, rising production costs and changing market conditions, making integrated development initiatives increasingly important. He said the program would promote climate-resilient agriculture, strengthen biodiversity conservation, improve ecosystem management, expand market opportunities and improve access to finance and business services. "Sustainable development in island contexts cannot be achieved through isolated interventions," Brown said. "By supporting integrated planning, sustainable land use, biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation, the BE-GREEN Programme will help communities make better decisions for both people and nature." The BE-GREEN Programme is scheduled to run for six years, supporting Fiji's efforts to strengthen rural economies while protecting natural resources and improving climate resilience.

Solomon Islands has strengthened its partnership with Japan after signing a Development Policy Loan agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) aimed at supporting fiscal stability, governance reforms and long-term economic resilience. The agreement was signed in Tokyo by Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade Rick Houenipwela, who described the financing as an important step in advancing the government's reform agenda. "This initiative supports our commitment to strengthening governance, advancing sound fiscal reforms and building a more resilient and inclusive economy," Houenipwela said. He said the partnership supports the government's four national priorities: strengthening institutions, building a productive economy, responsibly managing natural resources and investing in people. JICA President Akihiko Tanaka said Japan remains committed to supporting Solomon Islands' development agenda, describing the government's priorities as "a clear and forward-looking vision." "We believe this project will strengthen the institutional and fiscal foundations needed to advance these priorities and support sustainable development," Tanaka said. He noted that JICA has partnered with Solomon Islands for nearly five decades, supporting projects in infrastructure, natural resource management and public investment systems. "Japan remains a trusted partner supporting the government's reform efforts and development aspirations," he said. Houenipwela welcomed Japan's continued assistance, describing the country as a reliable development partner that has supported Solomon Islands through both challenges and opportunities. He said the agreement would further strengthen bilateral relations while contributing to sustainable economic growth and improved public sector governance. Both sides expressed confidence that the partnership would help build a more resilient, inclusive and prosperous future for Solomon Islands.

Fiji has launched the Nasaulevu Integrated Tourism Development Masterplan, a landmark tourism project aimed at creating a new tourism and investment hub while placing indigenous landowners at the centre of development. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka unveiled the masterplan on 19 June at Navoci Village in Nadi, describing it as the beginning of a new phase that will require strong governance, community unity and effective implementation. The masterplan covers Nasaulevu Island, a 747-acre site located opposite Denarau Port Marina, one of Fiji's premier tourism gateways. Prepared by global consultancy ARUP in partnership with the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) and the Nakovacake Development Trust, the masterplan was funded through a USD 400,000 grant from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The initiative is being promoted as Fiji's first tourism development blueprint of its scale to integrate indigenous landowners, institutional investors and international technical expertise from the outset. A central feature of the project is its landowner-led development model, under which the Vanua of Nakovacake will play a direct role in planning, governance and economic participation. Officials say the approach is designed to ensure local communities benefit from future tourism growth while maintaining a stake in the long-term development of their customary land. Speaking at the launch, Gavoka said the completion of the masterplan marked the transition from planning to implementation. "This launch is not an ending. It is the start of a more demanding phase requiring unity, sound governance and a clear path from concept to construction," he told community members. The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation said it would continue supporting the project as it moves toward delivery and investment attraction. The development is expected to strengthen Fiji's tourism sector by creating new opportunities for accommodation, recreation, marine tourism and supporting infrastructure near the country's busiest tourism corridor. Tourism remains a key pillar of Fiji's economy, contributing significantly to employment, foreign exchange earnings and economic growth. The government has identified sustainable tourism development and greater participation by indigenous landowners as priorities for the sector's future expansion. The Nasaulevu masterplan is expected to serve as a model for future tourism developments in Fiji by combining community ownership, institutional investment and international planning expertise within a single development framework.

  Since being signed in October 2025, the ‘U.S.-Australia Framework for Securing Supply in the Mining and Processing of Critical Minerals and Rare Earths’ (“Framework”) has gained momentum against the backdrop of intensifying global competition for strategic resources. The initiative reflects a broader structural shift: critical minerals are no longer simply commodities, but are increasingly becoming instruments of economic security, industrial policy and geopolitical leverage. At its core, the Framework seeks to integrate two resource-rich, politically aligned jurisdictions into a more resilient supply chain for minerals essential to defence systems, semiconductors, electric vehicles and clean energy infrastructure. It aims to do so by incentivising cross-border investment, accelerating permitting and facilitating preferential offtake arrangements. From a policy standpoint, the Framework aligns with parallel efforts such as the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act and Australia’s Critical Minerals Strategy, each designed to reduce dependence on concentrated supply sources and to “friend-shore” production capacity. In practical terms, the Framework may unlock access to U.S. government-backed financing, including through the Export-Import Bank of the U.S. and the U.S. Department of Defense’s industrial base programmes, materially improving project bankability. For developers and investors, this signals opportunity. However, history — and recent arbitration trends in the mining sector — suggest a more complex reality: geopolitical stability at the macro level often masks heightened instability at the project level. Indeed, the acceleration of capital deployment, compressed development timelines and increasing politicisation of resource allocation are all well-established catalysts for disputes. Where disputes are likely to emerge 1. Native title and land access pressures A significant proportion of Australia’s critical mineral deposits are located on or near land subject to Indigenous rights and cultural heritage protections. The consultation and consent requirements under the Native Title Act 1993 are rigorous, and for good reason. However, where projects are fast-tracked under strategic imperatives, tensions inevitably arise. Recent experience across the mining sector shows that insufficient consultation or procedural shortcuts can trigger injunctions, heritage disputes and long-tail reputational harm. From a disputes perspective, these conflicts are increasingly hybrid, combining domestic administrative litigation with contractual and investor-State dimensions. 2. Joint venture and offtake fragility in volatile markets Critical minerals projects are capital-intensive and often structured through complex joint ventures and long-term offtake agreements. These arrangements are particularly vulnerable in environments of price volatility and shifting policy incentives. As seen in lithium and rare earth markets over the past five years, divergence between contracted prices and spot markets can become extreme. This creates fertile ground for disputes over: • price review and hardship clauses**;** • force majeure and “change in law” provisions**; and** • operator control and capital allocation decisions. Where projects are strategically significant, these disputes may escalate quickly, with broader political or regulatory implications. 3. Regulatory complexity and judicialisation of approvals Australia’s regulatory landscape, spanning federal regimes such as the Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers Act and a patchwork of state-based mining and environmental laws, remains inherently complex. The addition of a “strategic project” designation does not eliminate this complexity; it may, in fact, intensify scrutiny. Third parties, including environmental NGOs and local communities, are increasingly sophisticated and willing to challenge approvals through judicial review mechanisms. This trend mirrors developments in other jurisdictions, where expedited approvals tied to energy transition goals have been successfully contested, delaying projects and increasing costs. 4. Export controls and sovereign reallocation risk The Framework itself is non-binding and operates within a fluid geopolitical environment. Export controls, domestic reservation policies or shifts in alliance priorities can materially alter the commercial assumptions underpinning a project. Investors structuring projects around anticipated U.S. demand or preferential access may face realignment risk if political priorities shift. This raises complex questions around: • stabilisation clauses**;** • sovereign interference**; and** • potential recourse under investment treaties. Recent ISDS jurisprudence demonstrates that resource nationalism, particularly in strategic sectors, continues to generate high-value claims, often centred on indirect expropriation and fair and equitable treatment standards. A structural observation: ESG as shield and sword An emerging dynamic worth highlighting is the dual role of ESG considerations. On the one hand, ESG compliance is increasingly positioned as a prerequisite for access to financing and market entry under frameworks like this one. On the other, ESG obligations are being invoked by States as a regulatory justification in disputes. This creates a paradox: ESG can operate both as a shield for States and as a sword for claimants, particularly where regulatory measures are inconsistent, disproportionate or applied retrospectively. Conclusion: Strategic alignment, legal complexity The U.S.-Australia Framework represents a sophisticated attempt to align industrial policy with geopolitical realities. It will likely accelerate investment and unlock significant value across the critical minerals supply chain. But for project developers, investors and financiers, the key takeaway is clear: the risk profile is evolving, not diminishing. Careful attention must be paid to: • contractual risk allocation (particularly around price, force majeure and regulatory change); • dispute resolution mechanisms (including the selection of the arbitral seat, governing law and enforcement strategy); and • the interaction between domestic regulatory frameworks and international investment protections. For project developers, investors, offtake counterparties and financiers active in Australia’s and/or the US’s critical minerals sectors, careful attention should be given to contractual terms in light of the rapidly changing regulatory environment which, in some respects concerning the Framework, remains undefined. In short, the next phase of the critical minerals boom will not only be defined by “big deals”, but also by increasingly complex, high-stakes disputes.   Ryan Cable, Partner (Brisbane), and Diora Ziyaeva, Partner and U.S. Region Co-Lead in Mining and Natural Resources (New York), are members of Dentons’ global International Arbitration and Investment Treaty Arbitration groups. They advise clients across the mining, energy and infrastructure sectors on project development, joint ventures, dispute resolution and regulatory compliance.

PNG Air has officially bid farewell to its iconic Dash 8 fleet, marking the end of an important chapter in the airline's history and the completion of its transition to a modern, all-ATR fleet. For decades, the Dash 8 aircraft served Papua New Guinea with distinction, earning a reputation for reliability and versatility while connecting communities, supporting key industries, and operating into some of the country's most challenging airstrips. As the fleet enters its next chapter, all three Dash 8 aircraft will continue their operational service with new operators overseas. One aircraft recently departed for Kenya, where it will join Renegade Air to support both domestic services and United Nations operations. PNG Air Chief Executive Officer Mr Brian Fraser said the farewell marked both a proud achievement and a significant milestone for the airline. "The Dash 8 has been an extraordinary aircraft for PNG Air and for the people of Papua New Guinea. These aircraft have connected communities and supported our nation's growth for many years. While we bid farewell to an important part of our history, we are excited about the future as we continue our transition to a modern ATR fleet," Fraser said. The retirement of the Dash 8 fleet forms part of PNG Air's broader fleet modernisation programme. As the airline transitions to the ATR 72-600 and ATR 42-600, it is investing in the future of regional aviation through modern technology, enhanced safety systems, greater passenger comfort, improved operational performance, and increased environmental sustainability. The ATR fleet offers industry-leading fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions, supporting PNG Air's commitment to providing safer, more reliable, and more sustainable air services. The aircraft are also well suited to Papua New Guinea's unique operating environment, with the capability to serve regional and remote destinations efficiently. About PNG Air For nearly four decades, PNG Air has connected the people of Papua New Guinea through safe, reliable, and affordable air services. The airline currently operates more than 460 flights each week across 22 destinations, providing essential passenger and cargo services throughout the country.

Customs leaders from 24 Pacific administrations will gather in Fiji this week for the 28th Annual Conference of the Oceania Customs Organisation, focusing on strengthening border security, facilitating trade and supporting economic growth across the region. The conference, to be held from June 2 to 4 under Fiji's chairmanship of the Oceania Customs Organisation, will bring together heads of customs agencies, senior government officials, development partners and international organizations under the theme, "Scaling Up the Commitment of Customs to Protect and Grow our Pasifika Communities." The meeting comes as Pacific nations face increasing pressure from transnational organized crime, shifting trade patterns and growing demands on border management agencies. According to organizers, discussions will focus on enhancing regional cooperation and building customs capabilities to address emerging security and trade challenges. Recent large-scale narcotics seizures across the Pacific have highlighted attempts by organized criminal networks to exploit maritime and aviation routes across the region. Customs administrations also continue to confront risks linked to human trafficking, illicit financial flows, customs fraud, environmental crimes and the smuggling of prohibited goods. OCO Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, Udit Singh, said customs agencies play a critical role in protecting communities while supporting economic development. "Customs today is far more than a border agency. We are guardians of our communities, facilitators of trade, protectors of government revenue, and partners in economic growth," Singh said. "The work of Customs directly impacts the prosperity, safety, and resilience of our Pacific nations." Singh said Pacific countries, despite being geographically dispersed, face common challenges that require collective action and stronger regional partnerships. "The scale and complexity of modern border threats mean that no country can address these issues alone. Regional cooperation is essential. When one Pacific border is strengthened, the entire region becomes safer and more secure," he said. He noted that the Pacific occupies an increasingly strategic position within global trade and transport networks linking Asia, Australasia and the Americas, making effective customs administration critical to regional and international security. The conference will feature contributions from international partners including the World Customs Organization, the United Nations and the World Bank. Key agenda items include border security, maritime enforcement, trade facilitation, passenger processing, digital transformation, leadership development and intelligence-sharing across Pacific jurisdictions. During Fiji's tenure as OCO chair, the organization has prioritized regional capacity building, leadership development, customs modernization and stronger partnerships with international agencies. Organizers said these initiatives have helped strengthen customs administrations across the Pacific and improve their ability to respond to emerging threats and opportunities. This year's gathering marks the first time in more than a decade that Fiji has hosted the OCO Annual Conference, reflecting the country's continued role in regional customs cooperation. Members of the Oceania Customs Organisation include Papua New Guinea, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Samoa, Tonga, Kiribati, Tuvalu, Nauru, Palau, Timor-Leste and other Pacific jurisdictions.