Energy & Power: East Timor broke ground on a $107m solar plant with storage in Manatuto, a joint EDF–Itochu venture expected to cut fuel imports and supply about 30% of electricity demand by 2028. Climate Resilience: UNICEF says Timor-Leste’s climate crisis is hitting children hardest—droughts, landslides and flash floods are disrupting schools and health services, with partners pushing solar-powered schools, climate-resilient clinics and stronger social protection. Regional Trade & Integration: Timor-Leste is set to make its first appearance at the China-ASEAN Expo in September as a formal ASEAN member, signaling deeper trade links as the event highlights AI and green energy. Industry & Infrastructure: Timor-Leste invites India into an LNG push, pointing to new energy investment pathways. Security & Governance (Regional): US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned ASEAN partners that any move to control tolls in the Strait of Hormuz could set a dangerous precedent—an issue with direct implications for shipping and regional supply chains. Crime & Digital Economy (Regional): UNODC reports scam gangs stole $88bn–$114bn across the Asia-Pacific in 2025, with criminals increasingly using AI and cross-border “franchising” models.