Pacific nations disagree on China missile test statement

On Friday, August 7, 2026, at 5:34 pm

Naoero and Kiribati cause frustration at the Pacific Islands Forum meeting in Fiji

In short

New Zealand's foreign minister thinks China is influencing the meeting

Naoero and Kiribati block a statement about China's missile test

Australia's foreign minister wants Pacific ministers to show leadership

Naoero and Kiribati block a statement, and New Zealand thinks China is involved

Australia and New Zealand want the Pacific Islands Forum to oppose the missile test

Kiribati and Naoero block the statement despite other nations' support

New Zealand's foreign minister is frustrated with two countries

They use consensus as a veto

That's not the Pacific way

Winston Peters is frustrated at the meeting

Two countries respond to an outside partner's wishes

Outsiders should not tell insiders what to do

The two countries did not give reasons for their opposition

One official calls Kiribati's position absurd

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong wants a joint statement

Senator Wong wants Pacific ministers to show leadership

There was a discussion about peace and stability

Penny Wong wants Pacific leaders to display leadership

Many Pacific countries have already criticized the missile test

Most Pacific leaders are concerned about China's missile test

Australia will work with all members on issues that matter

The final communique will not mention the missile test

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