Taiwan arrives at Pacific table, and China objects

China expressed displeasure after Taiwan took part in the Pacific Islands Forum's opening ceremony, warning of unspecified consequences for the democratically governed island's attendance. Beijing's special envoy for Pacific island affairs, Qian Bo, stated that this action was inappropriate and objected to by all. The United States and Australia rejected the notion that Beijing should dictate who can attend the forum, emphasizing that it is primarily a gathering of the Pacific family.

Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung defended Taiwan's participation, stating that the island is honored to serve as a partner in the Pacific. Despite Taiwan not being a formal dialogue partner, it holds development partner status within the forum, alongside 21 other countries. China has been reducing diplomatic ties with Pacific island nations, leaving only three - Palau, Tuvalu, and the Marshall Islands, as formal ties.

The Pacific Islands Forum includes Australia, New Zealand, and several Pacific island nations, with leaders from Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa, Solomon Islands, and Kiribati absent this year. Australia and New Zealand are concerned about China's growing influence in the Pacific, and they are strengthening security and development ties as they seek to counter Beijing's influence and deter any permanent Chinese military presence in the region.