Wed Oct 16 22:23:05 UTC 2024: ## Kiribati President Condemns China’s Ballistic Missile Test in Pacific
**Tarawa, Kiribati** – The President of Kiribati, Taneti Maamau, has publicly condemned China’s recent test launch of a ballistic missile in the Pacific Ocean, marking a rare instance of criticism from a close regional ally.
In a statement posted on social media, Maamau’s office expressed displeasure over the lack of prior warning regarding the intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test, which occurred in late September.
“Kiribati does not welcome China’s recent ICBM test, including other countries that had tested similar weapons in the recent past,” the statement read. “The high seas in the Pacific are not isolated pockets of oceans… therefore we appeal to all countries involved in weapon testing to stop these acts to maintain world peace and stability.”
The statement comes as a surprise, considering Kiribati’s strengthened ties with China in recent years. In 2019, Maamau severed diplomatic relations with Taiwan and forged closer bonds with Beijing, hoping to leverage the partnership to achieve ambitious development goals by 2036. This has included signing a policing agreement that brought Chinese officers to the capital, Tarawa, raising concerns in the US and its allies about China’s growing influence in the Pacific region.
While China has denied any aggressive intentions, Western analysts point to activities like the deployment of Chinese police, studies for a new runway on Kanton Island, and extensive marine mapping as indicators of China’s desire to establish a stronger security presence in the region.
The missile test, which was China’s first in four decades, has been widely criticized in the South Pacific, but Kiribati’s condemnation is particularly noteworthy given its close relationship with Beijing. This development raises questions about the future of the two countries’ relationship and whether China’s actions are jeopardizing its regional partnerships.
First Piper 