Australia protests China’s ‘destabilising’ missile test

Australia has voiced strong concerns to China regarding a recent nuclear-capable missile test conducted in the South Pacific. Foreign Minister Penny Wong described the launch as "destabilizing" during a meeting with her Chinese counterpart in Manila, emphasizing Australia's desire for a peaceful and stable region governed by international law.

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We have made clear publicly and directly to China that we regard the missile test as destabilising and we… put that directly to Foreign Minister Wang Yi in my discussions (with him) yesterday.

The missile test, which involved a Chinese submarine firing a ballistic missile earlier this month, has drawn criticism from Australia and a dozen Pacific Island nations. Monitors indicated the missile landed in an ocean area between the Solomon Islands, Nauru, and Tuvalu. Australia stated it did not receive adequate notice of the test, which violated the region's commitment to remaining free of nuclear weapons testing.

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We want a region which is peaceful, stable and prosperous. We want a region where countries, all powers, including great powers, observe international law and, in particular, the law of the sea.

Wong's comments came shortly after she condemned China's "dangerous conduct" following a confrontation between Philippine and Chinese sailors near the disputed Second Thomas Shoal. During a visit to the Philippines, Wong also announced that Australia would provide the Philippine Coast Guard with $6.7 million worth of drone technology and training, further underscoring regional security concerns.

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real concerns about behaviour that is destabilising and risky