Pacific Ocean Policy: Pacific civil society and leaders gathered in Suva to push for Pacific control over ocean decisions, rejecting deep-sea mining and warning that militarisation and outside economic pressure are shrinking local policy space. India–Japan Defence & Maritime Ties: Japan’s Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi began a maiden India visit with Guard of Honour ceremonies, wreath-laying, and talks focused on maritime cooperation with Indian Navy leadership. China Property Fallout: Evergrande founder Hui Ka Yan was sentenced to life in prison on bribery, fraud and falsifying financial information charges, with major fines and asset confiscation. Culture & Community in Motion: Pooja Hegde marked India Day in New York as Guest of Honour, while a new book, “Art of Community,” documents how public art festivals turn everyday spaces into cultural hubs. Education, Safety & Access: Ayushmann Khurrana backed girls’ school safety concerns tied to unsafe rural roads, and student protests challenge official claims about school facilities. Cultural Appropriation Debate: Chinese influencers wearing hanfu at Seoul’s Gyeongbokgung sparked backlash over possible confusion with hanbok. Arts & Learning: A Dunhuang-themed charity exhibition in Shanghai lets Gansu students paint classic grotto tales, bridging heritage and youth creativity.