Pacific Forum fails to condemn China's missile test after Kiribati and Nauru block consensus

Pacific Islands Forum foreign ministers in Suva could not agree on a joint statement condemning China's nuclear-capable missile test into Pacific waters last month. Kiribati and Nauru opposed a strong stance. New Zealand's Winston Peters said some members prioritised external partners' wishes over Forum solidarity, calling it an "unusual view." Leaders meet in Palau later this month.