Pacific diplomacy: U.S. officials say a White House summit with a dozen Pacific Islands leaders was “collaborative” and focused on listening, with Biden pledging new infrastructure funding, climate support and anti-illegal fishing efforts—while stressing Washington isn’t asking countries to choose between the U.S. and China. Local elections logistics: France’s High Commission defends changes to Nouméa voting arrangements for the 28 June provincial elections, saying fewer polling centres have boosted turnout; it will run nine centres in Nouméa (up from eight) after discussions to cut travel times. Transport on election day: Tanéo/SMTU confirms the Greater Nouméa bus network will run on election day, after party complaints and criticism of reduced stops and Sunday service. Election campaign cost: French authorities say 3.52 million election leaflets have been printed and packed for voters, with the French state covering about 60 million Pacific francs for delivery. Climate risk: SPREP urges Pacific communities to prepare for El Niño after it was declared underway, warning impacts will vary by country. Maritime security: The French Navy patrol vessel Jean-Tranape is set to arrive in Nouméa, replacing older ships to boost EEZ surveillance with drones and improved radar. Regional governance: Vanuatu’s Anna Naupa becomes the first woman to lead the MSG Secretariat, based in Port Vila, in a historic appointment for the Melanesian bloc.