China's missile test into Pacific waters set to dominate Suva meeting

China test-fired a missile that can carry a nuclear warhead into Pacific waters that are supposed to be nuclear-free, with only hours' warning. Foreign ministers from 18 Pacific Island nations, including New Zealand's Winston Peters, meet in Suva on 7 August 2026. Otago University's Robert Patman said agreeing on a shared response may be difficult because countries have different relationships with China. China is itself a Forum partner and gave the Forum over USD $1 million in June.