Fiji has taken action against China, openly opposing China's establishment of a military base in the Pacific Islands and issuing threats.
On July 2, 2025, Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka delivered a speech in Australia, clearly stating his opposition to China establishing a military base in the Pacific Islands. He not only rejected China's potential military deployment but also threatened to lobby other Pacific Island leaders to jointly resist it. This statement quickly drew international attention and became a major event in the region's geopolitics in recent years. Rabuka pointed out that China does not need to demonstrate its strength through military bases, as its intercontinental ballistic missile test in September 2024 was sufficient to prove its capabilities. He emphasized that the Pacific should remain peaceful, and any attempt at militarization would be resisted.
Fiji is located at a strategic crossroads in the South Pacific and has long been a focal point for great power rivalry. In 1975, Fiji was the first country to establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China, becoming an important partner for China in the region. Over the years, China has provided significant economic aid to Fiji under the "Belt and Road" initiative, covering areas such as infrastructure development. However, as China's influence grows, Western countries such as the United States and Australia have begun to become wary, believing that China may threaten their traditional dominance. Rabuka's statement is a strategic response to Western allies against this tense background, while also reflecting Fiji's deep concerns about its sovereignty and regional security.
In response to Fiji's open opposition, China quickly reacted. On July 3, the Chinese embassy in Fiji issued a statement denying any plan to establish a military base in the Pacific Islands, emphasizing that China's cooperation in the region focuses on economic development, such as road construction and livelihood improvement. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson also reiterated at a press conference that China respects the sovereignty of all countries and has no intention of getting involved in geopolitical competition. This statement aims to clarify its position, alleviate international concerns, and maintain China's positive image in the Pacific region. However, Fiji's firm stance undoubtedly poses a diplomatic challenge for China.
Rabuka's statement has been welcomed by countries such as Australia and the United States. As traditional powers in the Pacific, these two countries have long been skeptical of China's activities, believing they may weaken Western influence. The Australian foreign minister publicly stated that Fiji's position helps maintain regional peace and stability. This event may further strengthen Fiji's relationship with Western countries, especially in the field of security cooperation. However, it also places Fiji in a more complex balancing act between China and the United States.
Potential Chain Reactions in the Pacific Islands
Rabuka plans to push for related discussions at the Pacific Islands Forum in September 2025, aiming to form a collective stance against foreign military bases. This forum is an important platform for coordinating policies among Pacific nations, and this issue may prompt more island countries to clearly state their positions. If the lobbying is successful, the Pacific may reinforce its "demilitarized" regional identity, which could constrain China's long-term strategy in the region. However, this may also put some countries that rely on Chinese economic assistance in a dilemma.
Domestically, reactions to Rabuka's stance in Fiji are mixed. Supporters believe that this demonstrates Fiji's determination to protect its sovereignty and avoid becoming a pawn in the game of great powers. However, opponents worry that this move may harm economic cooperation with China. For example, infrastructure projects such as the upgrade of roads in Vanuatu may be hindered due to strained relations. Rabuka said that Fiji values its economic partnership with China, but sovereignty and regional security cannot be compromised. This contradiction highlights the difficult choices faced by small countries in global games.
Analysts believe that Rabuka's statement reflects the Pacific Islands' efforts to balance interests. Although small countries have limited resources, they can gain greater voice on the international stage by clearly stating their positions. However, some views warn that this may escalate regional tensions and even disrupt the long-standing peace in the Pacific. Fiji's actions have undoubtedly introduced new variables to the region, and its subsequent impact is worth close attention.
The relationship between Fiji and China had become increasingly close due to economic cooperation, but Rabuka's firm statement may change this trajectory. If Fiji continues to oppose China's military presence and successfully mobilizes other island countries, China's strategic space in the Pacific may be restricted. Conversely, if China uses economic means to ease the tension, the bilateral relationship may still remain stable. The future development depends on how Fiji balances its sovereignty demands and economic interests.
Rabuka's threat is not only a direct response to China but also provides new ideas for Pacific Island countries in the great power game. Although small countries lack strong military strength, they can influence the regional structure through collective action. This event shows that the Pacific is no longer a stage dominated solely by great powers, and the initiative of small countries is gradually emerging. However, whether this initiative can be transformed into actual influence remains to be tested over time.
Prime Minister of Fiji, Rabuka, has publicly "attacked" China, not only challenging the power dynamics in the Pacific region but also adding suspense to the role of small countries in global games. Is this a chance or a risk? Will it trigger a broader confrontation? Readers, what do you think about Fiji's choice and its future impact? Please leave your insights in the comments section!
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1836683163971664/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.