Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has raised concern over China's test of a nuclear-capable missile in the South Pacific, urging for safe and professional military conduct and greater transparency. During a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Manila, Wong expressed her worries about the missile test and its implications for regional security. A Chinese submarine fired the ballistic missile fitted with a dummy warhead earlier this month, reaching far into the Pacific Ocean. The missile appeared to land in a patch of ocean somewhere between Solomon Islands, Nauru, and Tuvalu.
Australia has previously stated that it did not receive sufficient notice of the missile test. Additionally, a dozen Pacific Island countries have denounced the test, citing it as a violation of the region's wish to remain free of nuclear weapons testing. The incident has heightened tensions in the region and underscored the need for clear communication and mutual understanding between nations.
The test has sparked significant concern among Australia and its Pacific neighbors, who view the action as a potential threat to regional stability. The Australian government has been vocal about the importance of maintaining a nuclear-free Pacific and has called on China to provide more information about the test and its intentions.
In her remarks, Wong emphasized the importance of reassurance and transparency, highlighting the need for nations to conduct their military activities in a manner that does not undermine regional trust and security. The meeting between Wong and Wang Yi comes at a time when diplomatic relations between Australia and China have been strained over various issues, including trade, security, and human rights.