China's Missile Test Violates Pacific Peace Ideals, Says Australian Foreign Minister

SYDNEY, July 7 (CNA) -- China's test-firing of an intercontinental ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead into the Pacific region has been described by Australia's Foreign Minister as a violation of the principle that the Pacific should be an Ocean of Peace, and a destabilizing factor that increases the risk of miscalculation.

Penny Wong, who is currently on a tour of Pacific island nations, was interviewed via phone from Suva, the capital of Fiji, by ABC's "AM" program. Host Melissa Clarke asked if China's missile test on July 6 was a response to the signing of the "Ocean of Peace Alliance" between Australia and Fiji. Wong declined to comment on China's motives for the test but emphasized that China's actions are undermining regional stability.

"Let China explain its intentions. I just want to state Australia's perspective: this test is a destabilizing factor that increases the risk of miscalculation," Wong said. She stressed that China's actions violate the principle that leaders in the Pacific uphold: "the Pacific should be an Ocean of Peace."

China's missile test occurred just hours after Australia and Fiji signed the "Ocean of Peace Alliance" agreement yesterday (July 6). The news immediately became a focus of Australian media attention, with questions arising about whether China's missile test was a retaliatory measure for the signing of the agreement between Australia and Fiji.

Clarke also asked if Australia's commitment to establishing more formal defense cooperation with Pacific nations would "anger China." Wong stated that Australia must strengthen security cooperation with its partner nations to ensure its own safety and stability.

"We are indeed living in an increasingly competitive era, and the challenge facing Australian leaders and leaders of Pacific nations is what we must do to ensure that our people enjoy peace and stability. To achieve this goal, we are committed to ensuring that we can determine the future of this region ourselves."

Wong believes that deepening and strengthening relationships and trust with neighboring partner countries is crucial for Australia's security. The "Ocean of Peace Alliance" agreement is not just a bilateral agreement between Australia and Fiji, but an open platform for security cooperation that allows other countries in the region to join.

"This agreement means we undertake mutual defense obligations together. It also reflects Fiji, Australia, and many other countries in the Pacific region's commitment to cooperating to jointly maintain peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific."

In the interview, Wong also stated that defending democratic values is a key spirit behind Australia's promotion of regional security cooperation. "Democratic systems and values are one of the foundations upon which alliances and related agreements are built." (Edited by Chen Hui-ping) 1150707

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