The Pacific Islands Forum summit opened in Palau, a diplomatic ally of Taiwan, amid a tense atmosphere. At least five country leaders did not attend, amid China's pressure to expand its influence.
On 31 August 2026, the Pacific Islands Forum began discussions on key regional issues including climate change, drug-related crime, and the recent incident where China tested guided missiles landing in the Pacific Ocean in July, amid growing concerns about China’s increasing security and economic influence.
This year’s meeting was especially sensitive as the forum, composed of 18 member countries, was held in Palau, a diplomatic ally of Taiwan. China expressed displeasure over Taiwan’s invitation as a development partner. Similarly, China, Singapore, Japan, the UK, and the US declined to send their leaders, instead dispatching deputy ministers or senior officials. China also issued travel warnings advising its citizens to avoid Palau, labeling it an unsafe destination for tourists.
The Samoan government stated in a release that its delegation would be led by the deputy prime minister, while the prime minister of Vanuatu and the leader of New Caledonia, a French overseas territory, also decided not to attend the summit.
Historically, the Pacific Islands Forum has symbolized regional unity for decades. However, this year’s meeting occurred amid escalating geopolitical rivalry and conflict.
Palau’s President Surangel Whipps said the Pacific is home, not a stage for geopolitical competition. He emphasized that priorities should be renewable energy promotion, drug crime suppression, food security, and climate change response—issues directly affecting people in the Pacific Islands.
Source: AFP