Missile test crosses multiple Pacific EEZs

China's recent ballistic missile test, which flew over the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of several Pacific Islands Forum member countries, has sparked regional concern, according to Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa.

During a media conference following the Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting, questions arose about the Forum's delay in issuing a collective statement. Waqa acknowledged the seriousness of the missile's trajectory over multiple Forum members' airspace, confirming it as a significant regional issue.

“

The importance, the seriousness of the test and how the trajectory that went, the missile went over several Forum member countries’ airspace. That is true.

While individual member states have released strong statements, Waqa explained that achieving a unified regional position is difficult because the Forum operates on consensus, requiring agreement from all 18 members before any official statement can be made. "What we're trying to do here is a combined voice. And that is very, very difficult," he stated.

“

What we're trying to do here is a combined voice. And that is very, very difficult.

The missile test has underscored the vulnerability of Pacific nations to military activities conducted beyond their immediate borders but within the broader region. Waqa emphasized the Forum's need to balance these concerns with the diverse individual positions of its members, rejecting suggestions that the consensus process allows any single country to dictate the Forum's stance. He affirmed that the process is designed to ensure every member has a voice, making their combined voice louder when agreement is reached.

Discussions are ongoing within the Forum to determine the most effective way to present a united Pacific position on the missile test, with the aim of issuing a collective statement that accurately reflects the concerns of all member countries.

“

We combine our voice, so it becomes louder. If we don’t all agree, then it’s no go.