China missile test draws condemnation from Pacific island nation Vanuatu

Vanuatu has become the latest Pacific island nation to condemn China's recent long-range missile test conducted in the Pacific Ocean. The nation, considered a close partner of China, issued a strong statement calling for an immediate cessation of all ballistic missile launches in the region.

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We call on all countries, including China, to immediately cease ballistic missile tests in the Pacific.

The office of Vanuatu's Prime Minister Jotham Napat released a statement expressing concern over the missile test, which was reportedly launched by a Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy strategic nuclear submarine. The missile, described as carrying a training warhead, was detected on June 6 and is believed to have landed in the Pacific waters between the Solomon Islands, Nauru, and Tuvalu.

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lack of prior consultation and transparency

Vanuatu's government criticized Beijing's actions, highlighting a "lack of prior consultation and transparency." This lack of openness, the statement argued, raises questions about China's commitment to maintaining peace, security, and stability within the Pacific region. While acknowledging China as an "important development partner," Vanuatu stressed that all partners operating in the region must "respect the collective decisions of the Pacific island countries."

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raises questions about China's commitment to peace, security, and stability in the Pacific region

This condemnation follows similar expressions of concern from other Pacific nations, including Tuvalu, a diplomatic ally of Taiwan. Tuvalu voiced "grave and significant concern" over the missile test, urging major powers not to use the Pacific as a testing ground for weaponry. The incident underscores the growing geopolitical sensitivities surrounding military activities in the strategically important Pacific.

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respect the collective decisions of the Pacific island countries