by Richard Sanders, Staff Writer
Last week’s missile test conducted by China in the Pacific Ocean sent ripples of concern through French Polynesia, though a subsequent event hosted by China appeared to ease local tensions. The ballistic missile reportedly landed about 700 kilometers from the Marquesas Islands, outside of French Polynesia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
China claimed it had informed Pacific nations including France, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States beforehand, a statement confirmed by French High Commissioner in French Polynesia, Eric Spitz.
This marks the first instance of China launching a missile into the Pacific in over 40 years, although expert Ankit Panda noted that the country frequently tests long-range missiles.
In the aftermath of the launch, nations such as Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Fiji, and Palau expressed worries about potential impacts on regional stability. French Polynesia’s President, pro-independence Moetai Brotherson, also voiced his concerns, particularly regarding the lack of prior notification about the launch.
Brotherson announced plans to seek clarification from both the French High Commissioner and President Emmanuel Macron, as well as convey his concerns to the Chinese diplomatic representative in the territory. He indicated he would deliver a letter expressing disappointment over the lack of communication regarding the missile launch.
Later that evening, Brotherson and Spitz attended a celebration hosted by Chinese Consul General Lixiao Tian for the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. During this event, discussions turned to the missile test, where Spitz emphasized that the missile carried an “inert load” and fell into international waters, asserting that French authorities had been properly notified beforehand.
Lixiao described the launch as part of a routine training program that posed no threat, aiming to reassure the population of French Polynesia about China’s commitment to maintaining world peace.
Brotherson lamented the tensions in the Pacific, likening their geopolitical position to “a grain of rice in the ocean,” amidst the rivalry between the U.S. and China.
Senator Teva Rohfritsch remained skeptical, stating he had reached out to French authorities, including Macron, to convey his concerns and demand a firm response. He noted that the local population was deeply unsettled by the missile launch and urged for a strong diplomatic and military stance to ensure peace in the region.
In August, the outgoing Commander of French Armed Forces in French Polynesia, Commodore Geoffroy d’Andigné, highlighted rising tensions in the Pacific and the need for preparedness, citing increased foreign naval activity near French Polynesia’s EEZ. His successor, Commodore Guillaume Pinget, is also tasked with overseeing French naval operations in the Pacific.
