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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