Pacific Leaders Raise Alarm Over China Missile Test as Nauru Dissents

Pacific Island leaders have raised concerns over China’s latest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test in the Pacific, although Nauru formally rejected the regional bloc’s position during an annual summit in Palau.

Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr., who hosted the Pacific Islands Forum, said China’s July missile test passed over several Pacific island nations without sufficient advance warning. The launch was Beijing’s first known ICBM test in the Pacific since September 2024.

At the summit’s closing media briefing on Thursday, Whipps said leaders urged countries conducting ICBM tests to provide greater transparency and reassurance. They called for at least 24 hours’ advance notification in line with international practice. However, he confirmed that Nauru dissented from the statement.

Nauru restored diplomatic relations with China in 2024 after previously switching recognition between Beijing and Taipei.

Australian Energy Minister Chris Bowen said Friday that the disagreement did not undermine the broader regional message. He noted that the vast majority of Pacific nations supported expressing concerns over missile testing even without unanimous agreement.

Palau, one of three Pacific Island countries maintaining formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, had sought a stronger condemnation of China’s missile launch from the 18-member forum.

Beijing responded by accusing Palau of creating unnecessary “hype” and attempting to influence other Pacific nations. China said such efforts were malicious and would fail.

Tensions at the Pacific Islands Forum were also heightened by Beijing’s objections to Taiwan’s participation. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory, while Taiwan rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims.

Taiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung on Friday criticized what he called China’s “wolf warrior” diplomacy, arguing that Beijing’s approach threatened Pacific unity. Lin also alleged that Chinese officials engaged in espionage during the summit.

The gathering was further marked by the absence of five Pacific leaders, who sent lower-ranking ministers instead. New Zealand is scheduled to host the next Pacific Islands Forum summit in 2027.