Forum Economic Ministers in Majuro: Marshall Islands Finance Minister David Paul opened the 2026 Forum Economic Ministers Meeting by warning of a “triple shock” hitting the Pacific—fuel insecurity, rising import costs, and food vulnerability—amid Middle East-driven market stress. Regional resilience push: Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa urged ministers to treat worsening global conditions as a chance to strengthen financial and economic resilience, while the meeting agenda spotlights energy security and coordinated responses to external shocks. Fuel crisis response on the ground: RMI declared a State of Emergency over the fuel price shock, as leaders weigh tough choices to manage higher energy and transport costs. Cybersecurity cooperation: Tonga joined an INTERPOL regional cybercrime initiative, with the program also including the Marshall Islands, as Interpol reports a sharp rise in cybercrime across Asia and the South Pacific and flags small island vulnerabilities. Governance accountability: Guam’s Office of Public Accountability received a full compliance peer review rating under U.S. Government Auditing Standards, a reminder of the audit and oversight standards Pacific governments are expected to meet. Youth and democracy: Pacific youth leaders were urged to take a more active role in shaping democratic governance, with calls to move beyond passive participation and strengthen youth representation in decision-making. Climate justice diplomacy: Leaders including the Marshall Islands were involved in climate mobility discussions emphasizing justice and partnerships for small island states facing displacement and adaptation pressures. Maritime risk watch: Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz slowed again amid renewed Iran restrictions, with a Marshall Islands-flagged vessel recorded entering the Gulf—another reminder of how regional shipping routes can quickly affect Pacific energy costs.