Shiprider Sovereignty Row: The U.S. says its newly signed Shiprider Agreement with Solomon Islands is meant to strengthen sovereignty, with Solomon Islands officers keeping law enforcement powers while boarding U.S. Coast Guard vessels to tackle illegal fishing and sea crime. Parliament Push: The Independent Group is calling on PM Matthew Wale to “walk the talk” by referring the Shiprider deal to Parliament for debate and oversight after signing. U.S. Port Funding Race: PM Wale says the U.S. is in advanced talks to finance a key port project at Bina Harbour, reviving competition with China’s regional infrastructure footprint. Gold Ridge Tragedy: A landslide at the Gold Ridge gold mine on Guadalcanal has killed at least one person, with more feared dead as police and mine officials continue recovery amid unstable debris and unknown causes. Conservation Win: The Lukulobere Tribe in Choiseul celebrates official protected area status for 563 hectares, after years of fighting logging threats. Local Infrastructure: Honiara’s Hot Bread roundabout road upgrade is in its final stage, with asphalt paving completed and finishing works underway. Health Program: A world-first scabies control mass drug program has sharply reduced cases in Solomon Islands and Fiji, according to a new study. Business & Jobs: MALD hands over SBD 1.34m in grants to support indigenous agribusinesses, including processing and post-harvest work. Travel Ease: Solomon Islands and Hong Kong agree on reciprocal visa-free travel from August 26, expected to boost tourism and trade.