The President of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr, has accused Beijing of intimidating Pacific Island nations with this week’s test firing of a nuclear-capable ballistic missile.
As one of Taiwan’s few remaining allies, Palau has no direct links with Beijing through which to lodge its objections, but President Whipps is urging those island countries that do have diplomatic ties with China to voice their concerns forcefully.
Mr Whipps Jr believes the missile test was designed to intimidate Pacific nations.
He says a Chinese research vessel entered Palau’s waters illegally a short time after the missile was launched, something which is only heightening tensions.
“I’m shocked and deeply concerned about this kind of behaviour,” said Mr Whipps.
“It demonstrates the lack of transparency and really a lack of respect for the sovereignty of Pacific nations.”
