Pacific Summit Condemns China Missile Test Despite Nauru Objection

Pacific Island leaders expressed concern over China's Pacific missile test at their annual summit, though Nauru formally dissented, according to a statement from summit host Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. on Thursday. China's intercontinental ballistic missile test in July, its first known launch in the Pacific since September 2024, passed over several island nations without adequate warning. Leaders called for at least 24 hours advance notification of such tests, while Nauru, which re-established diplomatic ties with China in 2024, dissented from the consensus. The summit was also strained by China's objections to Taiwan's participation, and Beijing accused Palau of stirring "hype" over the missile test. Five Pacific leaders were absent, sending low-ranking ministers instead, with the next forum summit hosted by New Zealand in 2027.