China's Missile Test Sparks Controversy as Australian PM Visits Solomon Islands to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

(CNA Sydney, July 7 - Reuters) Australia and the Solomon Islands announced today that the two countries are strengthening bilateral relations. This comes just one day after China test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile in the Pacific, a move analysts say could intensify strategic competition in the region.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arrived in the Solomon Islands capital, Honiara, today and was welcomed by newly elected Prime Minister Matthew Wale. Albanese stated that the two countries have agreed to continue consultations on a new comprehensive treaty.

Reuters reported that Albanese posted on social media platform X: "Australia and the Solomon Islands are strengthening our partnership."

Albanese added, "Because Australia's security begins in the Pacific, we will always stand up for our neighbors."

China yesterday test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile from a nuclear-powered submarine in the Pacific. This was the first such test since 2024 and has raised concerns in the United States, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and Taiwan.

Taiwan's National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu released an image on social media showing the missile flying over the Philippines and landing between the Kingdom of Tonga and Nauru, approximately 1,000 kilometers from the Solomon Islands.

Wu stated in his post: "China once again proves itself to be a bully in this region."

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated at a press conference yesterday: "This was a routine military training activity, not targeting any specific country or objective. Relevant countries were notified in advance, and it complies with international law and international practice. The launch activity maintained safe, standardized, and professional operations throughout. We hope relevant countries do not overinterpret it."

A report by the think tank Lowy Institute last month indicated that China's capability to strike Australia militarily will significantly increase within the next 10 years.

Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) today: "This shows China's increased range in deploying nuclear weapons, and ultimately, this is seriously destabilizing."

Analysts believe that after signing a security agreement with China in 2022, the Solomon Islands has become the Pacific nation most closely aligned with Beijing. This agreement has raised concerns in the United States and prompted Australia to strengthen its diplomatic efforts in the region.

During his official visit to Australia last month, the new Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Wale, who took office in May, stated that he would discuss a comprehensive treaty with Australia and review the security agreement with China.

Speaking at his meeting with Albanese in Honiara today, Wale said: "We have many matters to attend to, so we look forward to a fruitful dialogue in the future." (Compiled by Li Peishan) 0707