Pacific leaders express concern over China missile launch but fail to reach consensus

Pacific leaders at their annual summit expressed collective concern over China's ballistic missile launch into their waters but failed to reach unanimous condemnation, with Nauru dissenting from the statement. The Pacific Islands Forum's joint reproach, seen as a test of regional unity amid major-power rivalry, was agreed despite Nauru's objection. Kiribati's leader was absent from the retreat, though New Zealand's Prime Minister downplayed the significance of both dissents. The missile launch in July drew regional criticism, but the lack of consensus highlights deepening divisions. Nauru severed ties with Taiwan in 2024 to align with Beijing, while host Palau still recognizes Taiwan, complicating geopolitical dynamics.