Vanuatu has expressed grave concern over China’s recent ballistic missile launch in the Pacific, saying it undermines the region’s commitment to peace and a nuclear-free Pacific.
In a statement, the Office of the Prime Minister said the government was “seriously concerned” by the launch.
“As a State Party to the Treaty of Rarotonga and a country that has consistently advocated for a nuclear-free Pacific since independence, Vanuatu is deeply troubled by this action.
“The Pacific must remain a zone of peace, free from nuclear weapons and militarisation,” the statement said.
The government reaffirmed its relationship with China while stressing that all partners must respect regional decisions.
“China is one of Vanuatu’s valued development partners, and we reaffirm our commitment to the relationship we have built since independence. However, all partners operating in our region must respect the collective decisions of Pacific Island countries. This includes the ‘Ocean of Peace’ declaration agreed by Pacific Islands Forum Leaders at the margins of the Leaders’ Retreat in Honiara in 2025.”
Vanuatu also raised concerns about the lack of consultation before the missile launch.
“We are also concerned by the lack of prior consultation and transparency surrounding this launch. Such actions raise questions about commitments to peace, security and stability in the Blue Pacific, and are inconsistent with the spirit of partnership and regional respect that we value.”
The government reaffirmed its commitment to the Treaty of Rarotonga and called for an end to ballistic missile testing in the region.
“Vanuatu therefore reaffirms its commitment to a nuclear-free Pacific and to the principles of the Treaty of Rarotonga. We call upon all countries, including China, to immediately cease ballistic missile testing in the Pacific region.”
It also urged greater transparency over activities that could affect the region.
“We urge full transparency and prior consultation with Pacific Island countries on any activities that may impact the security and environment of our Ocean. At the same time, we remain committed to working with all development partners, in ways that uphold Pacific regionalism and the Ocean of Peace.”
The statement concluded: “The Pacific is our home. Our security, livelihoods and future depend on it remaining a region of peace.
