Pacific Ministers Condemn Missile Tests in Regional Meeting
Defence chiefs from the South Pacific expressed grave concern over recent ballistic missile tests.
Key points
- Defence ministers from seven nations met in Nadi, Fiji, from 22 to 24 September 2026 to discuss regional security.
- The group expressed grave concern over a recent ballistic missile test in the Blue Pacific waters without prior notice.
- Fiji expressed interest in hosting the Pacific Response Group headquarters from July 2028, following a rotation to New Zealand.
Defence ministers from seven South Pacific nations gathered in Nadi, Fiji. They met for the 11th South Pacific Defence Ministers’ Meeting. The session ran from 22 to 24 September 2026. Observers from Japan, the UK, and the US also attended.
According to The National Tribune, the group focused on securing the Blue Pacific. They discussed collective responsibility for resilient futures. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the region. This includes addressing traditional and hybrid security threats.
Concern Over Recent Missile Activity
Ministers expressed grave concern over a recent ballistic missile test. The test occurred in the waters of the Blue Pacific. It was conducted without appropriate notice to the region.
This marks the second such test in the region within two years. The meeting noted that this activity risks undermining peace declarations. It also challenges the call to respect national sovereignty.
The ministers echoed statements from the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting. They emphasized the need for a Pacific-led approach. This approach must honor the Pacific Way and regional values.
Strengthening Regional Disasters Response Capabilities
The group reviewed the Pacific Response Group’s evolution. Headquarters rotated to New Zealand on 1 July 2026. The group now operates with year-round co-location of personnel.
Ministers welcomed Fiji’s interest in hosting the group from July 2028. They agreed to expand the mandate in a phased manner. This will focus first on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Officials noted the compounding impacts of El Niño and a fuel crisis. These factors affect the Pacific security environment. Transnational organized crime and cyber threats were also discussed.
Planning Future Cooperation Frameworks
Ministers discussed the Joint Heads of Pacific Security meeting. Australia hosted this event in April 2026. They requested continued updates on the Regional Operations Deployment Framework.
