Fiji Opposes Chinese Military Base in Pacific, Says PM Rabuka

Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has firmly opposed China establishing a military base in the Pacific Islands, stating on Wednesday that such a move is unnecessary for projecting power, citing China’s recent intercontinental ballistic missile test as evidence.

Strategically located between the United States and Asia, the Pacific Islands are a key area of rivalry between Washington and Beijing over security influence. Rabuka told the National Press Club in Canberra that Fiji is aware of China’s efforts to expand its influence in the region and that he plans to lobby other Pacific leaders against the establishment of a Chinese military base.

“Pacific leaders have recently been discussing policies that are friendly to all and enemies to none. It’s a challenging path but one we can navigate,” Rabuka said. He warned that any conflict over the Taiwan Strait between major powers would directly affect the Pacific region, which is already being considered in planning by China and others.

Rabuka emphasized that Fiji opposes the idea of China setting up a military base. This stance comes amid China’s existing security pact with the Solomon Islands and a police presence in several Pacific nations.

“If they want to come, who would welcome them? Not Fiji,” he declared. The Chinese embassy in Fiji did not immediately comment. Beijing has previously stated it has no plans to build a military base in the Solomon Islands.

Rabuka pointed out that China’s military power doesn’t rely on bases, citing a September missile test where an intercontinental ballistic missile flew over Fiji into international waters, demonstrating China’s capability without the need for a military installation in the region.