Pacific leaders issue joint rebuke over China missile test

Pacific Island nations united in a joint statement on Thursday, rebuking China for a recent intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test conducted near their territory. Despite Beijing's pressure on Palau, the host of the regional leaders' meeting, the statement, read by Palau's President Surangel Whipps, called for at least 24 hours' notice of any such tests.

The 17 out of 18 forum members agreed on the communique, with only Naoero dissenting. China justified the test as a routine part of its annual military training, stating that relevant countries were informed in advance. However, Pacific countries harbor deep-seated concerns over nuclear testing by the US, Britain, and France in the region, which have led them to declare their waters a nuclear-free zone.

The summit's communique expressed concern over the recent ICBM test, which overflew several Pacific members without adequate notice, and urged all states undertaking ICBM testing to ensure transparency and reassurance. China accused Palau of "hijacking" responses from other Pacific nations and stated that the forum's message was clear, highlighting the need for transparency.

The United States conducts ballistic missile tests in the Pacific under a defense agreement with the Marshall Islands, providing adequate notice. Taiwan's presence at the forum, which Palau invited as an aid partner, drew Beijing's ire, with China's Pacific envoy threatening "consequences." Meanwhile, Australia pledged AU$600 million to enhance satellite and drone surveillance for tracking and intercepting illegal narcotics trafficking, while Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister raised concerns about new US visa bond charges for Pacific citizens traveling to the US.

The Pacific leaders emphasized the importance of unity in the face of challenges, stating that their bonds must remain stronger than the forces seeking to divide them.