Pacific climate diplomacy in Fiji: Australia and Fiji/Tuvalu kicked off Pre-COP31 talks in Nadi, with PM Anthony Albanese and Climate Minister Chris Bowen backing a renewables push and a possible Pacific declaration on fair climate governance and funding ahead of COP31. Natural capital push: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale used the same PACT Pre-COP31 platform to argue Pacific oceans, forests, reefs and fisheries can drive jobs and resilience, pointing to the PNA Vessel Day Scheme and calling for climate finance reform and new resilience investment tools. Pacific solutions message: University of Auckland’s Sir Collin Tukuitonga urged the world to look to Pacific-led approaches that link climate action with health gains and community stewardship. Ocean protection vs livelihoods: Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr said countries must balance marine conservation with economic development, citing Palau’s high seas treaty ratification and sanctuary approach. Deep-sea mining rules fight: A new legal push highlights how Nauru-linked seabed mining disputes are testing the International Seabed Authority’s framework as the race for minerals accelerates. Whales under pressure: A South Atlantic whale sanctuary bid failed again at the International Whaling Commission, with Nauru among the countries voting against. Climate displacement reality: In the Pacific, cyclones are forcing people into temporary tent settlements as rising seas and heavier rainfall worsen displacement risks.