China Rejects Palau's Missile Test Criticism, Defends Pacific Stance
China dismisses Palau's missile test remarks as groundless, while addressing US-Philippines ties, Zambia, Australia, and UNCCD.
Beijing has dismissed criticism from Palau over a recent missile test, calling the remarks "groundless" and motivated by "sinister intent." Palau's President Surangel Whipps Jr. had questioned why China chose to test-launch a missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead near Tuvalu and the Solomon Islands, rather than over open waters between China and the US. He had urged Pacific island nations to form a united position on the matter. The Chinese Foreign Ministry, through spokesperson Lin Jian, declined to comment further, stating the test's position had already been made clear.
On a separate matter, the ministry said it would closely monitor the establishment of a US Embassy center on Palawan Island in the Philippines, intended to help local fishermen report illegal fishing. While Beijing stated it has no objection to normal US-Philippines cooperation, it cautioned that such actions should not target or harm the interests of third parties.
In other developments, China congratulated Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on his reelection to a second term. The ministry expressed a desire to work with the new government to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations.
Responding to Australia's decision to order universities to sever cooperation deals with Chinese colleges, Beijing opposed what it called the "overstretching" of the national security concept to suppress normal international educational and scientific cooperation.
On regional ties, the ministry described China-South Korea relations as sound, with normal communication at all levels. It added that details regarding Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit would be released when available.
Finally, regarding the UNCCD conference in Ulaanbaatar, China highlighted its contributions, including a "China corner" exhibition and sideline events sharing its desertification control techniques. Beijing reiterated its commitment to contributing to global ecological protection and turning deserts into oases.