ADB & Waste-to-Energy Pushback: Environmental groups at the Asia Clean Energy Forum 2026 urged the Asian Development Bank to halt funding for waste-to-energy incineration and other “false solutions,” warning of worsening pollution and harm to vulnerable communities. Maldives-Japan Partnership: Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef and Japan’s ambassador reaffirmed strong Maldives-Japan cooperation ahead of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties, including climate resilience and disaster management. Tourism & Marine Care: NH Maldives Kuda Rah marked World Ocean Day with lagoon cleaning and coral planting, while Milaidhoo hosted students for “Ocean Stories” learning and hands-on conservation in Baa Atoll. Resort Sustainability Spotlight: Alila Kothaifaru Maldives ran World Environment Day tree planting and World Ocean Day reef clean-up and coral planting with Euro-Divers. Tourism Economy Update: Visit Maldives Corporation reported its strongest financial performance in eight years, and VMC’s AGM highlighted record tourism receipts and arrivals. Diplomatic Moves: New Dutch and French non-resident ambassadors presented credentials to President Muizzu, with climate resilience and marine cooperation on the agenda. Climate Outlook: Japan’s weather body says El Nino has set in and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole is likely by July, with potential impacts for the region’s monsoon.