Leaders in the Pacific are voicing strong concerns after China fired a test rocket, capable of carrying a nuclear warhead, into the central Pacific Ocean.
The missile landed near Kiribati, sparking widespread condemnation from nations in the region. Many are questioning China’s actions, especially since China has criticised past nuclear tests by other countries.
At the South Pacific Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Auckland, leaders from New Zealand, Australia, and other nations discussed the rising geopolitical tensions. Baron Waqa, Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, said the situation is “getting out of hand.” Fiji’s president also condemned the missile test at the United Nations, calling for respect for the region.
There is uncertainty about whether Kiribati, which has close ties with China, agreed to the test.
