Pacific Security: China’s submarine-launched ballistic missile test into the Pacific has sparked fresh anger across the region, with leaders saying it undermines the “Blue Continent” and violates the spirit of the Treaty of Rarotonga, even as Beijing insists it was routine training and not aimed at any country. Solomon Islands Diplomacy: Solomon Islands Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela will visit China from July 10–15, following the wider diplomatic fallout from the missile launch. Regional Defence Push: Australia and Fiji’s new “Ocean of Peace” alliance is being framed as a Pacific-led security step that could expand to other partners, as China’s actions intensify debate over regional pacts. Local Infrastructure: Road sealing works on Honiara’s Hotbread Roundabout to Central Market corridor are progressing, with the seaside section expected to reopen by end of week and remaining works continuing toward completion. Health & Community: World Skin Health Day in Honiara highlighted skin diseases as a major public health issue, urging early treatment and reducing stigma. Payments & Business: CBSI and Australia have started a Unified QR code standard project to improve interoperable retail payments nationwide. Sports: Honiara won men’s Rugby Sevens gold at the Solomon Games; and the OFC U16 tournament kicks off in Port Moresby with Solomon Islands among the teams.