In this bulletin:
1. FIJI — Fiji says preparations on track for Pre-COP31 Meeting
2. PACIFIC — Wong heads to Fiji for Pacific Foreign Ministers Meeting ahead of Palau Summit
3. NZ — Calls growing to sack Winston Peters after his ‘go back to your own country’ remarks to NZ MP
4. SOL — U.S. and Solomons deepen partnership
5. AUST — Australia’s elephant in the room: modern-day slavery
6. SAMOA — Talamua Media & South Media sign Memorandum of Cooperation
7. PACNEWS BIZ — Financial inclusion hits record 87 percent, but many Fijians still struggle to save: RBF survey
8. PACNEWS BIZ — Maladina welcomes Chinese firm’s interest to expand investment in PNG
9. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji Sugar Corporation privatisation will not be rushed: Fiji PM Rabuka
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Warrant authorities and payments now moved to PNG Finance Department
11. PACNEWS IN FOCUS — Analysis: Plenty at stake as Pacific foreign ministers meet
12. PACNEWS DIGEST — China’s role in Peace and Security in the Pacific and China-Pacific Island Countries Cooperation
FIJI – PRE-COP31 MEET: PACNEWS PACNEWS 2: Thu 06 Aug 2026
Fiji says preparations on track for Pre-COP31 Meeting
SUVA, 06 AUGUST 2026 (PACNEWS) — Fiji says preparations for hosting the Pre-COP31 Meeting are progressing well, with government agencies working alongside international partners to finalise arrangements for the key climate gathering.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade said it is working closely with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the COP31 Presidency and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Secretariat to complete the programme, agenda and logistical preparations.
Invitations and the Administrative Note will be issued through UNFCCC National Focal Points by the end of this week.
The Ministry said decisions on the level of representation at the meeting rest with individual governments and should not overshadow the purpose of the gathering.
“With respect to attendance, it is entirely a matter for individual governments to determine the level of their representation. Every country has its own national priorities and scheduling considerations, and we respect those sovereign decisions,” the Ministry said.
“Our focus is therefore not on speculation regarding attendance, but on ensuring that Fiji provides an excellent platform for constructive and meaningful dialogue.”
The Ministry stressed that the success of the Pre-COP31 Meeting should be judged by its ability to advance climate negotiations rather than the number of leaders attending.
“The success of the Pre-COP31 Meeting should not be measured solely by the number of Heads of Government or Heads of State in attendance. Rather, it should be measured by whether it helps build consensus, narrows differences in negotiating positions, and advances substantive progress towards successful outcomes at COP31.”
The meeting is expected to focus on key issues including climate finance, adaptation, loss and damage, and other priorities of particular importance to Pacific Small Island Developing States, while supporting broader international cooperation on climate action.
The Ministry said it is working hand-in-hand with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change to ensure both the diplomatic and substantive aspects of the meeting are delivered to the highest standard.
Preparations also involve close coordination with the UNFCCC Secretariat, the COP31 Presidency, development partners, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to ensure an inclusive and productive Pre-COP process.
The Ministry said Fiji has a long-standing record of international climate leadership and looks forward to welcoming delegates from around the world as it contributes to advancing negotiations ahead of COP31…. PACNEWS
PAC – DIPLOMACY: PACNEWS PACNEWS 2: Thu 06 Aug 2026
Wong heads to Fiji for Pacific Foreign Ministers Meeting ahead of Palau Summit
CANBERRA, 06 AUGUST 2026 (PACNEWS) — Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong will travel to Fiji to attend the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Foreign Ministers Meeting on Friday, where regional leaders will discuss key priorities ahead of next month’s Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau.
The meeting will bring together foreign ministers from the Forum’s 18 members to prepare for the leaders’ summit and advance discussions on regional issues, including peace and security, climate change and economic development.
Wong said the gathering comes at a time when closer regional cooperation is increasingly important.
“At a time of global uncertainty, it is more important than ever that Pacific countries work together to advance our shared interests, uphold Pacific priorities and strengthen the peace, stability and prosperity of our region.
“By bringing together its 18 members, the PIF makes us stronger and more resilient,” she said.
The visit follows the signing last month of two new treaties between Australia and Fiji in Suva – the Vuvale Union and the Ocean of Peace Alliance – aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and boosting long-term prosperity, security and resilience.
The agreements are also the first treaties to implement the Ocean of Peace Declaration, endorsed by Pacific leaders in 2025, with regionalism forming the foundation of both arrangements.
Wong reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to the Pacific Islands Forum, describing Australia as a reliable regional partner.
“As a founding member of the PIF, Australia is a partner the region can count on.
“Australia strongly supports the PIF’s role in bringing countries together and advancing our shared vision of a region where nations can make their own choices and shape their own futures,” she said…. PACNEWS
NZ – POLITICS: PMN PACNEWS 2: Thu 06 Aug 2026
Calls growing to sack Winston Peters after his ‘go back to your own country’ remarks to NZ MP
WELLINGTON, 06 AUGUST 2026 (PMN) — Opposition parties say Winston Peters can no longer serve as New Zealand’s Foreign Minister after telling Green MP Lawrence Xu-Nan to “go back to your own country”.
The opposition warns the remarks risk damaging relations with one of New Zealand’s biggest trading partners and a key Pacific partner.
The comments, made during Question Time in Parliament last week, have drawn criticism from Beijing and reignited debate over whether New Zealand’s top diplomat can continue in the role. Peters made the remarks while responding to an interjection from Xu-Nan during a debate about the previous government’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“No, I’m not making it up, sunshine. Go back to your own country. You only came here just five minutes ago. Go back to your own country, that’s where they lie like a flat fish. But they don’t lie like that here, alright, this is what we call democracy” Peters said.
Xu-Nan, who was born in Tianjin, China, has lived in New Zealand since 1994.
Speaking on PMN’s Pacific Mornings, Labour Deputy Leader Carmel Sepuloni said Peters’ comments were unacceptable for someone responsible for New Zealand’s international relationships.
“There’s no way that you can continue in that role when you are criticising our biggest trade partner, that being China, calling them a country of liars,” Sepuloni said.
“There’s a level of diplomacy that’s expected in the role of Foreign Affairs, and the Minister has slipped in that regard.”
Sepuloni says Pacific communities understand the harm caused by telling someone to “go back to your own country”
“They would be unacceptable if they were aimed towards any of us, and they’re certainly unacceptable if they’re aimed towards a Chinese New Zealander.”
Green MP Teanau Tuiono said the fallout had extended well beyond New Zealand politics.
“It has gone viral, not just here, but also over in China,” he told Fa’aoso.
“It points to me that this is a massive diplomatic failure on his part. Having the Minister for Foreign Affairs say those sorts of things about the Chinese community has had negative implications for us as well.”
Tuiono said the comments carried extra weight because they came from the minister responsible for New Zealand’s foreign relations.
“This is the Minister for Foreign Affairs insulting our largest trading partner and one of the emerging superpowers in the world,” he said.
“The Ministry for Foreign Affairs in China itself has rebuked these comments. So, it is a failure of diplomacy.”
Both Labour and the Greens say the controversy reflects poorly on Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s leadership.
Sepuloni says Peters’ position has become untenable.
“There’s just no way that you could be expected to go on, or that a leader should allow them to continue in that role.”
Tuiono says Luxon had failed to his ministers to account.
“It’s just another example of weak leadership,” he says. “The Prime Minister is directly responsible for his ministers.”
Labour leader Chris Hipkins has ruled out appointing Peters as Foreign Affairs Minister in any future government, while Labour campaign chair Kieran McAnulty has also called for Peters to be removed from the role.
Luxon has confirmed he spoke with Peters following the incident but has declined to reveal the details of their conversation.
“My conversation will stay between Winston and me. I’ve addressed it,” the Prime Minister told reporters.
Luxon has described the comments as offensive and said Peters should apologise, although he said the decision ultimately rests with the Foreign Minister
Winston Peters has not apologised…. PACNEWS
SOL – DIPLOMACY: INDEPTH SOLOMONS PACNEWS 2: Thu 06 Aug 2026
U.S. and Solomons deepen partnership
HONIARA, 06 AUGUST 2026 (INDEPTH SOLOMONS) — Solomon Islands and the United States are moving to deepen their partnership, with leaders from both countries declaring renewed momentum in bilateral ties during celebrations of America’s 250th Independence Anniversary in Honiara.
Prime Minister Wale said the partnership is founded on mutual respect, stating, “We value a partnership founded on mutual respect, trust, and on the recognition that every nation, regardless of its size, has equal dignity and voice”.
He welcomed the growing U.S engagement with the Solomon Islands and the broader Blue Pacific continent.
“Our relationship continues to grow from strength to strength, especially in the last few months.”
Wale acknowledged the strategic weight of modern alliances and reflecting on the complex global climate, said, the GREAT Coalition prioritised solidarity and collective principles, favoUring reciprocal regard above regional tactical competition.
“In a world divided, the relationships we build matter more than ever”.
He stressed that genuine partnerships must be anchored in fairness, emphasising a relationship built “on the recognition that every nation, regardless of its size, has equal dignity and voice”.
Bridging the geopolitical gap, Wale added, that despite differing backgrounds, international hopes remain universal: “We all seek peace. We all seek opportunities for our children. We all seek societies where justice, freedom, and human dignity are upheld”.
A major milestone in this renewed relationship is the formal return of the U.S Peace Corps.
Chargé d’Affaires P. Daniel O’Hara confirmed that following a formal request by Prime Minister Wale’s government, a letter of intent to re-establish the programme was recently signed in Washington by the Prime Minister and U.S Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau.
“Prime Minister, on behalf of every American who has ever taught in a classroom here, thank you and the great coalition for welcoming the Peace Corps back,” O’Hara said.
Highlighting the momentum of diplomatic efforts, O’Hara added: “In just three months, we have moved with speed and energy that speaks to the strength of our renewed partnership”.
Chargé d’Affaires O’Hara, presenting the U.S embassy’s “Global Freedom 250 initiative” said is not merely as a look into the past, but as a “launchpad for the next chapter of America’s relations with the world, and here with Solomon Islands”.
Highlighting the ideological alignment required in today’s geopolitical arena, O’Hara said that the U.S foreign relations have always relied on likeminded allies.
“That journey of American diplomacy has never been ours alone,” he stated. “
It has always been carried forward by partners, those who share our belief in liberty, self-determination, the rule of law, and the right to worship our Creator freely,” he said…. PACNEWS
AUST – MODERN SLAVERY: AAP PACNEWS 2: Thu 06 Aug 2026
Australia’s elephant in the room: modern-day slavery
SYDNEY, 06 AUGUST 2026 (AAP) — Anti-slavery commissioners across Australia have called for concrete action following revelations migrants have been working under conditions akin to modern-day slavery.
A system of illegal labour exploitation was still present in regional and rural NSW, the state’s anti-slavery Commissioner James Cockayne said on Wednesday.
This involved forced labour, debt bondage, servitude, deceptive recruiting and in some cases, sexual servitude, he said.
“Vulnerable workers are being recruited into conditions that we have found include indicators of modern slavery,” Dr Cockayne told reporters in Sydney, while also urging the NSW government to act on the concerns.
His comments were aimed at addressing the grievances facing many of the 33,000 migrants on the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme.
PALM workers hail from the Pacific Islands and East Timor to fill the shortage of unskilled and low-skilled labour across regional Australia.
They fill gaps primarily in the horticulture and the meat-processing sectors, with jobs typically in fruit picking and animal slaughtering.
Visa conditions imposed on PALM workers have left some earning as little as $70 (US$49) per week, an inability to leave their job, and no access to Medicare, according to Dr Cockayne.
The scheme ensures a minimum wage but businesses working alongside the programme can make deductions.
This includes the cost of flights to Australia, visas, accommodation – often provided by the employer – and transporting the workers from their housed residence to and from work.
Dr Cockayne noted in 2024 there was a consistent picture that PALM workers were growing vulnerable to modern slavery.
The ongoing evidence and lack of action regarding PALM workers was also called out by federal anti-slavery commissioner Chris Evans on Tuesday.
“We have spent years documenting the exploitation of migrant workers,” he said.
“The real test is not whether we are shocked by each new investigation. It is whether we are prepared to act on what we already know.”
A recent nation-wide poll from The Australia Institute canvassed more than 2000 people and two-thirds responded in support of PALM workers’ rights to change jobs and access Medicare.
Most survey respondents believed the workers lived in dilapidated housing…. PACNEWS
SAMOA – MEDIA: TALAMUA MEDIA PACNEWS 2: Thu 06 Aug 2026
Talamua Media & South Media sign Memorandum of Cooperation
APIA, 06 AUGUST 2026 (TALAMUA MEDIA) — The South Media Outlet under the Nanfang Media Group in Guangdong, China this week signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Talamua Media & Publications based at Togafu’afu’a.
South has initiated a Maritime Silk Road Media Innovation and Cooperation Platform committed to promoting the coordinated development of international media.
Signing the Memorandum of Cooperation was Qui Ping, Director of Global New Media & Communications Department, South Media and Angela Kronfeld-Polu, Managing Director of Talamua Media.
The cooperation will see both parties work together on the principles of equality, mutual and shared benefits, cultural exchange and development of the media.
The areas covered by the cooperation include cross-border reporting, content sharing, coordinated communications, organising of annual events and commercial cooperation.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Deputy Director of the Information Office of the Peoples Government of Guangdong Province, Deng Hong said the good relations between China and Samoa have survived 51 years and China has contributed to some of Samoa’s development through various projects.
As for the media, he believes the cooperation between South and Talamua Media will not only improve relations but a great bridge to push relations and communications.
Angela Kronfeld-Polu, Talamua Media’s Managing Director reiterated the importance of the cooperation as an opportunity to further the existing relations through culture, media and communications.
Talamua media is the first in Samoa to sign the memorandum of cooperation with South – a Nanfang Media Group based in Guangdong Province and dedicated to international communications. Besides coverage of news and information through different languages, they also organise diverse cultural exchange activities and connect local narratives with global audiences.
Talamua Media owns the Talamua Online News service and related social media platforms…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
FIJI – FINANCIAL INCLUSION: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 06 Aug 2026
Financial inclusion hits record 87 percent, but many Fijians still struggle to save: RBF Survey
SUVA, 06 AUGUST 2026 (FIJI TIMES) — Formal financial inclusion in Fiji has reached its highest level on record, with 87 percent of adults now using formal financial services, according to the Reserve Bank of Fiji’s (RBF) 2025 Fiji Financial Services Demand Side Survey.
The survey shows significant progress over the past decade, with formal financial inclusion increasing from 64 percent in 2014, to 81 percent in 2020, and now 87 percent in 2025.
The biggest gains have been recorded among people living with disabilities, where formal financial inclusion has risen by 10 percentage points to 91 percent, and the self-employed, which increased by 14 percentage points to 97 percent.
Despite the overall improvement, the survey highlights that financial exclusion remains highest among people living in the Northern Division (19 percent), youths (16 percent), and rural communities (15 percent). Encouragingly, formal financial inclusion is now broadly equal between men and women.
However, the survey found that personal bank account ownership has fallen to 68 percent, despite more people accessing formal financial services. Women (63 percent), youths (63 percent), and rural residents (61 percent) are less likely to own bank accounts, with the gender gap widening to 10 percentage points.
One of the most notable changes has been the rapid adoption of mobile money accounts, which have surged from 7 percent in 2014 and 17 percent in 2020 to 67 percent in 2025. Ownership is highest among people aged 36 to 55 years (77 percent) and residents of the Central Division (72 percent). Nearly three-quarters of banked Fijians also use mobile money services.
Digital banking has also become increasingly popular. The use of internet banking among banked customers has increased by 27 percentage points since 2020, with 38 percent now using online banking services. Uptake is strongest among younger adults, those aged 36 to 55 years, and urban residents.
Insurance coverage, however, has remained unchanged, with only 14 percent of Fijians holding an insurance policy. Awareness of climate-related insurance has almost doubled to 53 percent, while adoption has quadrupled to 8 percent since the previous survey.
The report also found that 74 percent of Fijians have no outstanding loans or credit, while 10 percent hold formal loans through financial institutions, mainly commercial banks. Informal borrowing, largely from family and friends, remains common.
Remittances continue to play a vital role in household finances. Forty-two percent of Fijians receive remittances compared with 21 percent who send them. Most remittances come from overseas and are transferred through formal channels such as mobile money (72 percent) and money transfer services (23 percent).
While access to financial services has improved, the survey paints a more challenging picture of household finances.
Only 39 percent of respondents said they were always satisfied with their financial situation, while just 24 percent believed they were on track to achieve their financial goals.
The survey found 33 percent of Fijians are trapped in a cycle where their income does not meet their expenses, while 46 percent say their income only matches their spending, leaving little or nothing to save.
Less than half of respondents reported saving money during the past year, and 61 percent said they could cover living expenses for one month or less if they lost their main source of income.
Almost half (47 percent) said they would need to borrow money from family or friends if faced with an unexpected financial emergency.
The findings suggest that while Fiji has made significant strides in expanding access to financial services and digital finance, improving household financial resilience and encouraging long-term savings remain major challenges…. PACNEWS
PNG – INVESTMENT: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 06 Aug 2026
Maladina welcomes Chinese firm’s interest to expand investment in PNG
PORT MORESBY, 06 AUGUST 2026 (THE NATIONAL) — Papua New Guinea Minister for Petroleum Jimmy Maladina has welcomed strong interest from China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) group to expand investments in Papua New Guinea beyond construction and real estate.
The group is now assessing opportunities in ship and boat building, slipway facilities, mining, and the petroleum sector.
CRCC vice president Sun Liquang, accompanied by general managers of its PNG subsidiaries, CRCC and China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, recently met with Prime Minister James Marape and Maladina.
During the meeting, the delegation discussed investment opportunities and provided an update on the operations of its two subsidiaries in PNG.
Maladina said the Government welcomed the company’s growing interest in PNG.
“We welcome CRCC’s confidence in Papua New Guinea and its interest in expanding beyond infrastructure into strategic sectors of our economy,” he said.
“This reflects growing international confidence in our country’s long term investment potential.”
Maladina said PNG continued to present significant opportunities across the petroleum, mining, maritime and infrastructure sectors under the Government’s investment and economic reform agenda.
“I encouraged the delegation to continue its feasibility work and engage closely with the relevant Government agencies,” he said.
“We look forward to investment proposals that create jobs, develop local industry, transfer skills, and deliver lasting economic value for Papua New Guinea.”
The CRCC delegation confirmed that their technical teams were undertaking feasibility studies and due diligence assessments before making investment decisions.
CRCC is one of the world’s largest integrated construction and engineering companies.
It operates in more than 130 countries in sectors including railways, highways, bridges, tunnels, ports, airports, urban development, mining and real estate.
The company is listed in Shanghai and Hong Kong with a market capitalisation of approximately US$15 billion (about K66b).
Maladina said the Government remained committed to working with credible international investors for mutual sustainable benefits…. PACNEWS
FIJI – SUGAR INDUSTRY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 06 Aug 2026
Fiji Sugar Corporation privatisation will not be rushed: Fiji PM Rabuka
SEAQAQA, 06 AUGUST 2026 (FIJI SUN) — Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has assured sugarcane farmers that any decision to privatise the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) will be made only after careful study and consultation.
Speaking during consultations with farmers in Seaqaqa, Rabuka said there was no need for concern as the Government would take its time before deciding on the future ownership of FSC.
“When we are talking about privatisation of FSC, don’t panic. Don’t panic. It will not happen quickly,” he said.
Rabuka said the Government would examine how other sugar-producing countries had transformed their industries before making any decisions on Fiji’s sugar sector.
He said many countries that once relied heavily on sugar had diversified their economies while continuing to support their sugar industries.
“We’re doing the same. We’re not going to discard the reliance that Fiji has had on the sugar industry,” he said.
Rabuka said the Government remained committed to strengthening the industry for the benefit of landowners, farmers and the nation.
“Why throw it away? Keep going,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the industry’s challenges extended beyond the sugar mills and included issues relating to landowner-tenant relationships, mill ownership and the overall structure of the sector.
He said the Government was working to address challenges that had developed over the industry’s 147-year history.
Rabuka said the consultations were intended to assess the industry’s progress, identify areas of decline and determine what was needed to ensure its long-term sustainability.
He thanked farmers for raising their concerns and acknowledged that not all questions could be answered immediately.
Rabuka said the issues raised would be compiled, with the Government returning to provide responses, while matters requiring immediate attention would be referred to the relevant agencies…. PACNEWS
PNG – GOVT PAYMENTS: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS BIZ: Thu 06 Aug 2026
Warrant authorities and payments now moved to PNG Finance Department
PORT MORESBY, 06 AUGUST 2026 (THE NATIONAL) — As of Monday, 03 August, all Papua New Guinea government payments and warranting authority were centralised in the Finance Department.
This is part of Prime Minister James Marape’s attempt to clean up the public sector as he nears the end of his second term in office.
“From Monday, 3rd of August 2026, warrant authorities will be issued by the Department of Finance.
“The changeover is to be effected in IFMS at close of business on Monday, 3rd August at 4.06 pm, when the warrant processing roles will be reassigned to the department; no warrant processing occurs under the former arrangements after that time.”
Previously, warrant authorities were released by the Treasury Department and many other departments were self-accounting.
Treasury will now be dealing with revenue creation and collection while all other departments’ payments are to be conducted through the Finance Department.
It is unclear if the move affects the large development budget which takes up a substantial part of the national budget and is managed by the National Planning and Implementation Department.
The letter advised that a transition office of cash management had been set up under a deputy secretary to be responsible for warrant execution, cash forecasting and warrant ceiling management.
A formal restructure will also be submitted to the Personnel Management Department to accommodate the new function and the centralisation of payments.
“This is a significant machinery of government change and a mark of confidence in this department, and I am writing to advise all staff of the arrangements now in effect,” Penias said in the letter.
“The time frame set by the Government is short and the professionalism our department shows in the coming weeks will determine how smoothly agencies experience this transition.”
Marape, at the same time, has directed chief secretary Ivan Pomaleu to set up a taskforce to ensure that the National Executive Council (NEC) decision is carried into effect. The seven-member taskforce will be headed by the chief secretary and comprises the Public Services Commission, Personnel Management Department, Office of the State Solicitor, Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs Department, National Monitoring and Coordination Authority, and the Central Agencies Coordination Committee.
The taskforce will:
*COORDINATE all suspension and acting appointment processes;
*ENSURE compliance with the Constitution, the Public Services Management Act and all relevant laws;
*REVIEW all annual performance reports, disciplinary records and supporting documentation;
* OBTAIN legal advice and clearance from the state solicitor;
*ASSESS and recommend suitably qualified officers from acting appointments; and,
*PREPARE a report and recommendations to the NEC at its next meeting.
“The recent decisions to suspend senior officers form part of the Government’s commitment to strengthen accountability, improving performance, and restoring public confidence in the national public service,” Marape said to Pomaleu in a letter…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS In Focus
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Analysis: Plenty at stake as Pacific foreign ministers meet
Pacific Correspondent Barbara Dreaver looks at what’s on the table.
AUCKLAND, 06 AUGUST 2026 (TVNZ) — Foreign Minister Winston Peters leaves for Fiji Thursday to meet with foreign ministers from around the Pacific.
One could be forgiven in thinking the Pacific Islands Forum foreign ministers meeting is one big snooze fest. There’s certainly been a precedent for it to be.
But this year’s annual session, which does the groundwork for the region’s leaders forum later in the month, has a number of critical issues up for discussion.
The increasing geopolitical competitive landscape is evolving into a major problem.
While for years the international community – with China until recently in the lead – has been jockeying for influence, the tension has now been amped up. China carried out live fire exercises between New Zealand and Australia last year, and also recently fired a ballistic missile with a dummy warhead into the Pacific Ocean.
As the Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale said at the time: “This is not something a friend does… this is not good in our region.”
Behind the scenes Pacific leaders are furious at China’s action – which happened on the same day Fiji signed a defence deal with Australia – but some have been reluctant to speak out.
Then there was the full 180 squealing of hastily applied brakes when PNG’s Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko, who had described the Chinese missile as “stupidity”, less than a week later closed down Taiwan’s representative office, winning applause from Beijing amid promises of elevating of ties.
While Australia puts the most aid into the region, China’s ‘no questions asked’ policy on how its grant funding is spent is attractive to cash-strapped Pacific nations and they aren’t about to bite the hand that feeds them.
Nonetheless, the region is not impressed at China’s missile action and is also resentful that the Pacific is being used as a stage for escalating militarisation by global power rivalry.
Pacific leaders have found themselves as reluctant bystanders at a show they have little choice but to attend.
Chances of a joint statement
So far there has been no joint statement in protest at the missile firing. If the foreign leaders by some miracle are able to agree on one, it will likely be watered down.
Despite this backdrop, it is naive to think geopolitics is at the top of Pacific leaders agenda. It’s not.
The cost of living is something that has hit the Pacific and its people hard and – to take a cynical viewpoint – leaders know this is more likely to get them voted out of power by their own voters than a Chinese missile.
As the global fuel crisis hit the Pacific, which is at the bottom of the supply chain, Pacific Islands Forum leaders officially invoked the Biketawa Declaration in May so they could coordinate a regional response.
The declaration provides a framework in times of crisis or an event that threatens the security of the region.
Ongoing fuel supply and high costs continue to be a serious concern. The impact of climate change also remains a priority for Pacific leaders.
And some of the region faces a food security crisis as the onset of El Nino, with the cyclical weather event expected to generate drought in the western Pacific in places like Papua New Guinea.
Disaster management
Devastating weather conditions are being predicted, so disaster risk management is key.
Papua New Guinea has had multiple tragic boat incidents in the last month due to strong winds, high swells and low visibility. In one disaster two boats with 27 people on board, including 11 children, capsized in rough seas and only the two skippers survived.
At the heart of it is how to make the valuable Pacific Islands Forum fit for purpose instead of the clunky, often heavily bureaucratic and sometimes completely inadequate grouping it is.
Work has been ongoing on what is called the “architecture” of the forum but it’s harder than it sounds.
Last year, reportedly folding to pressure from China, the 2025 Pacific Islands Forum host Solomon Islands initially banned Taiwan, a development partner, from attending.
After protests from other forum countries, the Solomons then blocked all development and dialogue partners from going, including China.
It is outrageous that a host country holds that much power – it is not one country’s organisation, the Pacific Islands Forum has 18 member countries.
And that’s the issue – those 18 countries have different needs, economic outlooks and varying levels of isolation. It’s pretty obvious that the region is stronger together. Working on common ground, unity, is key in these uncertain and volatile times…. PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
China’s role in Peace and Security in the Pacific and China-Pacific Island Countries Cooperation
By Liu Weimin, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Kingdom of Tonga
NUKU’ALOFA, 06 AUGUST 2026 (TALANOA’OTONGA) — Every milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on where we have come from and where we are heading.
Celebration of History and Commitment to the Future
As the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) celebrates its 99th anniversary on August 1 this year, it is of significance to look back on a remarkable journey of courage, resilience and dedication, and reaffirm a shared commitment to peace, security and cooperation in addressing the challenges in the Pacific and beyond.
Founded in 1927 under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, the PLA has grown together with the Chinese nation and its people. This year also marks the 90th anniversary of the Long March of Red Army, one of the most extraordinary chapters in the PLA’s history. The courage, determination and resilience demonstrated during that historic journey continue to inspire the Chinese people and remain deeply embedded in the identity and spirit of the PLA.
Over the past 99 years, the PLA has developed from a people’s force with humble beginnings into a modern military force dedicated to safeguarding China’s sovereignty and security, while contributing to national development and modernization. It plays a critical role in defending the territorial integrity, ensuring that Taiwan remains an inalienable part of China.
Throughout its history, the PLA has maintained a close bond with the Chinese people. It originates from the people, serves the people, and stands together with them, not only in times of national defence, but also during humanitarian crisis.
When natural disasters strike, the PLA is often among the first to respond. Working alongside local authorities and communities, they conduct search and rescue operations, deliver emergency assistance, evacuate affected people and properties, and help rebuild homes and restore daily life. Protecting lives and serving the people have always been at the heart of the PLA’s mission.
Beyond Borders: Contributing to Global Peace and Security
The PLA has actively and proudly participated in United Nations peacekeeping operations, international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts, maritime escort missions, and military-to-military exchanges, working with partners around the world to address common challenges, and contribute to regional and global peace and security, serving as bridge of friendship, symbol of solidarity, and channel of connection.
To date, the PLA has dispatched more than 50,000 peacekeepers to 29 UN peacekeeping missions authorized by the Security Council, making China the largest troop contributor among the five permanent members of the UN Security Council.
Many people in Tonga still remember the difficult days following the volcanic eruption and tsunami in January 2022. At that challenging moment, PLA Navy ships and aircraft promptly delivered emergency relief supplies and humanitarian assistance, standing alongside the people of Tonga as they responded to the disaster.
In 2024, PLA Navy ships participated in the International Fleet Review to celebrate the 65th birthday of His Majesty King Tupou VI and the 50th anniversary of the Royal Tongan Navy. The visits of the PLA Navy hospital ship Peace Ark and the Silk Road Ark came ashore to offer medical services and health consultations to the local communities, facilitating friendship, and understanding between China and Tonga.
A Changing World Requires Dialogue Not Division
The international security environment is undergoing profound transformation amid major adjustments in the global order. Growing geopolitical tensions and strategic competition, together with increasingly interconnected traditional and non-traditional security challenges, have intensified instability and uncertainty.
In addressing these challenges, China believes that peace and security can only be achieved through dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect.
China advocates building a community with a shared future for humanity and has put forward four Global Initiatives: The Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI), the Global Civilisation Initiative (GCI), and the Global Governance Initiative (GGI). These initiatives call for joint development, common security, mutual learning, and win-win cooperation. China supports open and inclusive regionalism, where countries work together on the basis of equality, mutual respect, and shared benefits.
China believes that partnership should prevail over alliance, cooperation over confrontation. There should be no “front door”, “back yard,” or sphere of influence, nor discriminatory or exclusive arrangements, and outdated concepts or doctrines that put countries into opposing camps, even military blocks.
A Defensive Defence Policy and Responsible Nuclear Country in the World
China pursues a national defence policy that is defensive in nature and remains firmly committed to the path of peaceful development. Efforts to strengthen national defence capabilities are aimed at safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests, while making greater contribution to regional and international peace and stability as a major country in the world.
China calls for the complete prohibition and thorough destruction of nuclear weapons, remains firmly committed to the no-first-use policy at any time and under any circumstances, the only one among the five recognised nuclear-weapon states to make such commitment, supports the international nuclear non-proliferation regimes.
We respect the aspirations of regional countries to maintain the South Pacific as a nuclear free zone, signed and ratified Protocols II and III to the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty, also known as the Treaty of Rarotonga, undertaking not to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against any party to Rarotonga Treaty, nor to conduct nuclear test in the South Pacific.
The recent test launch of China’s sea-based missile is to maintain and enhance the reliability and effectiveness of China’s strategic deterrence. It has nothing to do with the nuclear test, nor does it target any specific country or region. Relevant international responsibilities and procedures have been fulfilled before the launch. It should be viewed objectively without over interpretation or double standards.
The Pacific: A Shared Home and Ocean of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation
The Pacific is more than an ocean connecting countries and islands, it is a shared home carrying the histories, cultures and aspirations of Pacific peoples.
As such, the Pacific should remain an ocean of peace, friendship and cooperation, a region where countries stand together to address common challenges, protect the marine environment and pursue sustainable development.
For Pacific Island countries, climate change and energy security are not distant concerns, but immediate challenges even existential threat that directly affects communities, livelihoods and future generations. Improving disaster preparedness, enhancing climate resilience, and advancing energy transformation are naturally high on the agenda.
China shares the vision of a peaceful, resilient and prosperous Blue Pacific Continent, where countries have their own priorities, concerns and development choices. China’s role is to listen, support and cooperate based on the needs and aspirations of the Pacific peoples themselves, and guided by the principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit. Such cooperation remains open and inclusive for third parties.
We are ready to work together with Pacific Island countries, including Tonga, to advance cooperation in areas including climate resilience, energy security, and above all, sustainable development by drawing upon local experiences, regional knowledge.
At a time when the world is facing growing uncertainties and challenges, solidarity, dialogue and cooperation are more important than ever. China and Tonga share a traditional friendship and robust partnership, together we can contribute to build a better world, where cooperation replaces confrontation, partnership overcomes division, and the Pacific remains a region of peace, dignity and shared prosperity…. PACNEWS
