World Bank Visit: Deputy PM and Finance Minister Mulipola hosted a senior World Bank delegation to discuss Samoa’s development priorities, progress on the Climate Resilient Transport Project, and ways to speed up delivery. PSIDS UN Chair Handover: Samoa took over the Pacific Small Islands Developing States chair at the UN in New York, with Samoa’s ambassador set to lead the small-island bloc. Court & Policing: Fourteen defendants from a recent police drug raid remain in custody as the Supreme Court schedules hearings across late August, with one bail request denied. Online Misinformation Warning: Samoa Police and corrections issued a serious public alert about AI-generated fake posts and impersonation using police insignia, urging people to stop, check, and think before sharing. Political Defamation Case Escalates: Opposition leader Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi was charged over alleged defamation and electronic harassment tied to comments made during a press conference, released on bail and set to return to court. Government Clarification on Vehicle Use: The LTA clarified that a vehicle linked to the Prime Minister’s principal adviser keeps Government ownership even after a registration plate change for safety and security. Samoa-France Talks: Samoa and France explored cooperation on education exchanges, maritime and security, anti-drug efforts, film links, and possible new air connectivity routes. Marine Protection Moves Ahead: Samoa’s new protected marine areas will be surveyed over four weeks by National Geographic Pristine Seas to build the science needed for sustainable ocean management.