KOROR, Palau — Pacific Islands Forum leaders registered collective “concern” about China’s July ballistic missile launch into regional waters but failed to reach a unanimous rebuke, with Nauru dissenting from the communiqué clause, the Associated Press reported from the 55th Forum summit.
Leaders called for at least 24 hours’ advance notification of future intercontinental ballistic missile tests. The final text did not name China and stopped short of stronger criticism. Kiribati’s leader was absent from the retreat day; New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said that should not block a Forum position. Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. had pressed for a unified message on sovereignty and transparency.
Nauru switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to Beijing in 2024. China’s foreign ministry said Beijing pursues peaceful development and a defensive national defense policy. New Zealand will host the Forum in 2027.
Sources: AP; ABC Australia.
