Fiji Voices Opposition to Chinese Military Base in the Pacific Islands

The Prime Minister of Fiji, Sitiveni Rabuka, stated on July 2 that his nation is firmly against China building a military base in the Pacific Islands. He pointed out that Fiji does not require a military base for power projection, citing an intercontinental ballistic missile test as evidence of China's capability to demonstrate military strength without permanent installations.

Rabuka acknowledged the strategic positioning of the Pacific Islands between the United States and Asia, identifying the area as a battleground for influence between Washington and Beijing. He mentioned that Fiji, like other Pacific states, is grappling with the increasing influence of China and emphasized that he would advocate against China's military aspirations to fellow Pacific leaders. "In recent discussions, Pacific leaders have sought to adopt policies that promote friendliness toward all nations and hostilities to none, which is a challenging yet attainable goal," he remarked.

Additionally, the Prime Minister warned that the Pacific region would feel the repercussions of any potential conflicts arising from tensions in the Taiwan Strait. In response to questions regarding China's ambitions for a military presence, he reiterated that Fiji would not welcome such developments. Evidence of China’s growing footprint in the region includes a security agreement with the Solomon Islands and its police force presence in multiple Pacific nations. Rabuka underscored that Chinese military might does not necessitate a base, referencing a September missile test that flew over Fiji before landing in international waters. China’s embassy did not respond immediately to inquiries regarding these statements, and previously, Beijing has dismissed the idea of establishing a military base in the Solomon Islands.