PNG–Taiwan/China Tensions: Papua New Guinea moved to close Taiwan’s Port Moresby trade and economic office “immediately,” prompting a sharp U.S. reaction and renewed questions about how Beijing-linked pressure is reshaping PNG’s diplomatic space. Digital Governance & Cybercrime: PNG is drafting updates to its Cybercrime Code Act to better tackle AI-fuelled deepfakes, voice cloning, impersonation, and related monetisation, while also pushing broader digital public services. Elections Tech Caution: An election-technology adviser says PNG should not rush biometric voting for GE27, arguing citizen databases must be cleaned first and rollout should come later. AI & Identity Reform: PNG’s digital transformation agenda also includes new steps on cybersecurity and partnerships aimed at a more citizen-focused digital government. Health Tech Training: Divine Word University alumni completed a Basic Ultrasonographic Skills Workshop using a SonoSim virtual simulator supported by Poland, boosting diagnostic capacity across PNG. Space Science for PNG: NASA satellites detected an underwater volcanic eruption in the Bismarck Sea north of PNG, tracking ash stains and a pumice raft to show how space data can monitor remote hazards. Marine Conservation: PNG and partners are advancing the Melanesian Ocean Corridor of Reserves, with more Pacific nations joining a transboundary marine protection push. Education & Skills: UPNG will add new AI, critical thinking, and soft-skills streams across courses from 2027, while SILAG moves closer to becoming PNG’s first public service university. Energy Investment: PNG expects a Papua LNG final investment decision before end-2026 as reforms aim to unlock major petroleum projects.