China has test-fired a ballistic missile from a submarine in the Pacific Ocean, prompting concern from Australian officials. The Australian Government was informed on Monday that China was preparing to conduct a long-range missile test in the South Pacific Ocean within the next 24 hours. Shortly afterwards, Chinese officials confirmed the test had taken place at about midday.
PLA Navy Conducts Successful Test Launch
“The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy on Monday successfully conducted the test launch of a strategic missile by a submarine,” a Beijing official said. “The PLA Navy said that one strategic nuclear submarine of the navy on Monday noon successfully launched a strategic missile carrying a dummy warhead toward relevant high seas of the Pacific Ocean, which landed precisely within the designated waters.”
Australia Expresses Concern
Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the sea-based missile test highlighted the need for countries in the South Pacific region to “work together.” “This underscores the need for countries of the region to work together,” Wong said during a press conference in Suva, Fiji. “To ensure it is pacific countries who determine our futures.” Defence Minister Richard Marles called the update from Beijing “concerning.”
Australia and Fiji Sign Mutual Defence Pact
Earlier on Monday, Australia and Fiji signed a new military alliance including a clause of mutual defence, meaning an attack on Fiji from an outside force would trigger Australia’s full support. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka signed two new agreements at a ceremony. The Ocean of Peace Alliance, known as the Veitacini Treaty, commits both countries to mutually defend one another. The alliance is similar to the one Australia recently entered into with Papua New Guinea, called the PukPuk treaty, which comes into effect on Wednesday. Australia also has mutual defence pacts with the US and New Zealand.
