China’s recent missile test in the Pacific Ocean has stirred reactions in French Polynesia, although a celebratory event hosted by the Chinese Consul General later helped ease local concerns. The ballistic missile is reported to have landed approximately 700 kilometers from the Marquesas Islands, outside French Polynesia’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
China indicated it had previously notified Pacific nations, including France, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, a statement confirmed by Eric Spitz, the French High Commissioner in French Polynesia. This test marks the first missile launch by China into the Pacific in over 40 years, according to Stanton Senior Fellow Ankit Panda, who noted that long-range missile tests by China are routine.
In the wake of the launch, several countries, including Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Fiji, and Palau, have raised alarms about the potential implications for regional stability. French Polynesia’s pro-independence President, Moetai Brotherson, voiced his concerns, particularly about not being informed prior to the launch. He plans to seek clarification from both the French High Commissioner and French President Emmanuel Macron and to convey his discontent to the local Chinese diplomatic representative.
A few hours following the missile launch, Brotherson attended a function celebrating the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China, where he was able to address his concerns. During the event, Spitz emphasized that the missile carried an inert load and fell into international waters, asserting that proper notifications were given beforehand.
Chinese Consul General Lixiao Tian described the launch as part of a regular training program, stating it posed no threat and reassured attendees that China is committed to preserving world peace and harmony. He also expressed intentions to strengthen cooperation with French Polynesia in various sectors, including tourism and agriculture, and extended an invitation for Brotherson to visit China.
Brotherson reflected on the geopolitical tensions in the Pacific, commenting that the region is caught in the rivalry between the United States and China. Meanwhile, local Senator Teva Rohfritsch expressed skepticism about the launch and its implications. He noted that the local population was profoundly disturbed and urged the French government to provide a definitive response to ensure regional peace.
The former commander of the French Armed Forces in French Polynesia, Commodore Geoffroy d’Andigné, had previously warned of rising tensions in the Pacific, advocating for preparedness amid increasing military presence in the area. He underscored the importance of safeguarding the significant Exclusive Economic Zone of French Polynesia against these emerging threats.