Fiji Opposes China Military Base in Pacific Islands Amid Superpower Rivalry

Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that Fiji opposes China setting up a military base in the Pacific Islands, citing that Fiji does not require such a base for power projection. The Pacific Islands, strategically located between the United States and Asia, are a focal point of security rivalry between Washington and Beijing.

Rabuka highlighted that the islands are facing challenges from a dominant China expanding its influence. He mentioned that Pacific leaders are striving for policies that are neutral and accommodating to all parties. Rabuka emphasized the potential impact on the Pacific region in the event of a conflict over the Taiwan Strait between major powers.

In response to questions about Beijing's security ambitions in the region, Rabuka affirmed Fiji's opposition to the establishment of a Chinese military base. He expressed skepticism about the reception of such a base in Fiji, stating that Fiji would not welcome it.

Rabuka also pointed out that China demonstrated its power projection capabilities through an intercontinental ballistic missile test that passed over Fiji and landed in international waters. China's embassy in Fiji did not provide an immediate response to requests for comments on this matter.