Deep-Sea Governance: Te Ipukarea Society (TIS) has taken Cook Islands concerns about seabed mining to the International Seabed Authority, with Sieni Tiraa speaking against a US company’s push for an exploration licence tied to the South Penrhyn Basin—an area surrounded by the maritime borders of Cook Islands, Kiribati and French Polynesia. Climate Diplomacy: Forum foreign ministers backed a stronger regional climate push ahead of COP31, endorsing Pacific-led Pre-COP31 meetings and reaffirming priorities like climate finance access, the ocean-climate link, and amplifying Pacific voices—French Polynesia attending at special envoy level. Indigenous Rights: On International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples (Aug. 9), the Baku Initiative Group reaffirmed support for Indigenous rights and self-determination, explicitly naming the Māʻohi of French Polynesia alongside Kanak people and other communities across former French and Dutch territories. Ocean & Lifestyle: Ocean conservationist Dr. Sylvia Earle says deep-sea travel can be “safer than flying” with certified operators, as her company prepares a new “Honu” submersible for dives in French Polynesia later this year. Sport Roundup: A Pacific sports news roundup highlights regional performances at the World Athletics U20 Championships, including French Polynesia’s participation among other Oceania federations.