Government / World Fuel security at centre of Luxon’s Singapore visit as essential supplies pact signed The Government says a new agreement with Singapore will help keep fuel and food flowing, after talks with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and industry leaders on Jurong Island.
Economics / World New Zealand and Singapore sign deal to block export bans on fuel and food Binding pact will be folded into the NZ–Singapore FTA, with both countries agreeing not to restrict exports of agreed “essential goods” and to work more closely on supply chain shocks.
World / Health Ministry of Health acknowledges death of Fiji health secretary Dr Jemesa Tudravu The Ministry says Dr Jemesa Tudravu spent more than 30 years in Fiji’s health system and contributed to health outcomes across the Pacific.
World Health Ministry drafting antimicrobial resistance strategy after hospital outbreaks of VRE and CPO The Ministry says drug‑resistant organisms are already affecting patients, with a national strategy, prescribing guidelines and stronger surveillance now being developed.
World / Economics US widens Cuba sanctions, adds travel ban and penalties for foreign banks The White House has issued a new executive order expanding Cuba-related sanctions, empowering Treasury to target foreign financial institutions and block broad parts of the Cuban economy.
Economics / World White House orders fixed‑price contracting to become the default across U.S. Government The order moves agencies away from cost‑reimbursement deals, sets senior sign‑off thresholds for exceptions, and directs a 90‑day push to rework major existing contracts.
Economics / World White House orders launch of TrumpIRA.gov, a low‑fee IRA portal linked to $1,000 federal match A new US government website will steer workers without employer plans to private IRAs that meet strict cost and investment standards, and highlight eligibility for a Saver’s Match of up to $1,000.
Government / World Penk to meet Marles in Sydney as push for more integrated Anzac force steps up First overseas trip as Defence Minister will fold in Anzac commemorations and talks on “operationalising” the trans‑Tasman alliance under the Anzac 2035 framework.
New Zealand / World Sofa dinners at six: IKEA survey finds many Kiwi homes skip the dining table First New Zealand cut of IKEA’s global cooking study points to earlier mealtimes, couch-and-kitchen eating, and confident home cooking.
World / Health White House orders fast-track for psychedelic therapies, names ibogaine and sets $50m for state partnerships The order directs US agencies to prioritise review and limited access to psychedelics, expand trials with the veterans’ health system, and move faster on rescheduling once Phase 3 data is in.
Government / World Palau’s president in first official visit as Forum hosts plan back‑to‑back years Christopher Luxon meets Surangel Whipps Jr in Auckland today, with talks focused on Pacific priorities ahead of Palau hosting the Pacific Islands Forum this year and New Zealand in 2027.
World / Government Peters welcomes US–Iran announcements, backs push for lasting ceasefire The Foreign Minister says New Zealand will support efforts in the coming weeks, acknowledging mediation by Pakistan, Turkiye and Egypt and noting talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
