Pacific leaders unite in criticism of China's missile test at Palau forum

Pacific leaders criticised China's intercontinental ballistic missile test at the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau, calling for advance notice of at least 24 hours for future tests. The joint statement marked a rare unified stance despite internal divisions over how to respond to Beijing's military expansion. Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr confirmed the consensus, though Naoero dissented from the criticism and Kiribati's president skipped the meeting. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called the debate "unifying" and stressed the importance of pushing back against China's conduct. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun accused Palau of "sensationalising" the test and holding other states "hostage," while denying military expansion and pledging cooperation with South Pacific nations on peace and stability.