Amazon Health Cooperation: Guyana’s Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony convened Amazon countries to push regional action on malaria elimination, Indigenous Peoples’ health, hepatitis B/C, culturally appropriate care, and stronger disease surveillance, with Bolivia, Suriname and Venezuela attending in person and Brazil joining virtually under Guyana’s CESAM presidency. Critical Minerals Trade: The U.S. and Argentina launched the Andes-Atlantic Corridor to move lithium, copper and other strategic minerals from production areas to Atlantic ports, backed by a financing framework that could mobilize up to $7 billion through 2027. Bolivia Anti-Corruption Crackdown: Bolivia’s VP Edmundo Lara warned he may be targeted with fabricated charges as authorities arrested Attorney General Roger Mariaca and 13 others in an operation tied to alleged corruption and drug-trafficking links. Mining & Environment: Wake Forest and CINCIA researchers briefed Pope Leo XIV on mercury pollution tied to gold mining, warning it spreads through ecosystems and reaches vulnerable Indigenous communities across the Amazon. Power Rental Deal: Finning announced it is acquiring UK generator rental firm John F Hunt Power Group, expanding power rental capacity for industrial, healthcare, events and construction customers. Food Security Training: CIMMYT trained 22 specialists from 11 countries on surveillance, identification and management of maize and wheat diseases to protect yields and reduce mycotoxin risks. Cultural Preservation: Oruro’s “Sistine Chapel of the Altiplano” church roof restoration is moving forward with $66,240 support from the U.S. Embassy’s cultural fund, aiming to protect a key heritage and tourism site.