China Plans Ballistic Missile Test with Nuclear Capability in South Pacific

Australian media reported on Monday that China is preparing to conduct a ballistic missile test equipped with a dummy nuclear warhead in the South Pacific within the next 24 hours. Diplomats in the region have been informed about the upcoming launch.

This report follows the announcement earlier the same day of a major defense alliance between Australia and Fiji, under which each country commits to assist the other if either is attacked, according to Reuters.

The Chinese embassy in Australia has not responded to requests for comment so far.

Earlier, Australia and Fiji signed a historic defense pact, committing both nations to provide mutual assistance in the event of an attack on either side.

The Pacific Islands Forum alliance represents Fiji's first-ever formal defense pact, while the island nation becomes Australia's fourth official ally after the United States, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated, "The Pacific Islands Forum alliance establishes mutual defense commitments, and there is no higher obligation than to assist each other when needed."

During a joint press conference with Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka in Suva, Fiji's capital, Albanese added, "Any attack on Fiji by an external force will result in Australia's full support for Fiji and its sovereignty."

The defense agreement comes amid China's expanding economic influence and deepening security ties in the Pacific region, shortly after Australia signed a security pact with Vanuatu, under which Australia will remain the preferred security and policing partner for that country.