Mining & investment: PNG says it’s open to Chinese mining and exploration, but only if projects deliver fair benefits for landowners and the country while protecting the environment, with reforms including a one-stop shop for licensing and longer exploration licence tenure. Energy & tech infrastructure: Wood won a USD200m, five-year construction services contract with ExxonMobil for PNG’s major resource development, while ExxonMobil is set to take over operatorship of Papua LNG from TotalEnergies as ownership shifts. Connectivity for remote services: Ingram Micro signed an AirBridge distribution deal across NZ, PNG and the Pacific, giving partners access to ARNI secure satellite-and-network resilience for sectors like healthcare, government and mining. Digital safety for youth: PNG is developing a framework for an under-age social media ban, including age checks for platforms deemed unsuitable. Education & skills: Australia opened a new library and Early Childhood Education Centre at Sonoma Adventist College in East New Britain, and PNG also shared an AI education vision at UNESCO. Research & nature: K92 Mining backed a University of Goroka research and science conference, and scientists report the rediscovery of PNG’s “lost” spinach pipefish after decades. Border security: PNG police urged government to fund border agencies with tools and logistics, warning sovereignty is at risk without support. Health spotlight: UK nurse Agimol Pradeep won the USD250,000 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award for advocacy on internationally trained nurses and organ donation. Disaster & safety: A formal marine inquiry begins into the MV Anjeanette fire and sinking in the Solomon Islands, with PNG representation on the board.