Tuvalu condemns China's missile launch into Pacific Ocean

Email: online@newsofbahrain.com

Sydney: Pacific island nation Tuvalu has harshly criticised China's recent long-range missile test in the Pacific Ocean, referring to it as a ‘grave and serious concern’ for regional peace and security. Tuvalu Prime Minister Feleti Teo said his country serious concerns expressed by other Pacific leaders over launch of a ballistic missile with nuclear capabilities into the Pacific.

The missile was apparently launched from a Chinese nuclear-powered submarine, carried a false warhead, and landed in international waters near Tuvalu and Nauru. Beijing described the test as a routine military exercise carried out in conformity with international standards, emphasising that it was not targeted at any one country.

However, the deployment has sparked substantial criticism in the region. Australia, New Zealand, Japan, the United States, and numerous Pacific Island governments have expressed concerns about the lack of openness and minimal advance notification offered prior to the test. Many leaders have warned that the launch might escalate tensions and undermine Pacific security.