Pacific diplomacy in focus: Pacific Islands Forum foreign ministers ended talks in Suva without a joint statement condemning China’s July ballistic missile test, with New Zealand’s Winston Peters blaming “outsiders” and saying consensus was used as a veto by Kiribati and Naoero (formerly Nauru); the issue is set to be revisited at the 55th PIF Leaders’ Meeting in Palau. Taiwan’s return to Palau: The PIF says Taiwan will attend the Palau leaders meeting after being barred last year, despite China’s protests, with Palau, Tuvalu and the Marshall Islands backing Taipei. Palau governance: The Office of the Attorney General is moving toward public access to Palau’s sex offender registry via an on-site computer, while lawmakers also scrutinize AG Office practices after confirmation that three assistant attorneys general hold private legal contracts. Deep-sea mining pushback: President Surangel Whipps Jr. renewed Palau’s call for a moratorium and precautionary pause on deep-sea mining at the International Seabed Authority in Jamaica. Connectivity milestone: Australia says all PIF members are now connected to undersea telecom cables, including second connections supported for Palau. Local land dispute: A chief’s blockade of Ngardmau Waterfall has reignited a long-running land fight with the state, affecting tourist access. Sports (regional): Guam’s men’s and women’s teams advanced in the Oceania Volleyball Championships by beating Palau, setting up medal-round matches.