China tests ballistic missile from nuclear submarine in Pacific: Australia, New Zealand respond

The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy said that one strategic nuclear submarine of the navy on Monday successfully launched a strategic missile carrying a dummy warhead toward relevant high seas of the Pacific Ocean, which landed precisely within the designated waters, reported Xinhua.

China, however, did not reveal the type of missile tested.

Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong has accused China of 'destabilising' the region with the missile test, media reports said.

New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters called the test an "unwelcome and concerning development", and one that his government will discuss with Pacific partners, reported BBC.

Meanwhile, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning described the test launch as part of China's routine annual military training.

The Chinese side has already notified relevant countries in advance, Mao was quoted as saying by Xinhua, adding that the test launch complies with international law and international practice.

It is hoped that relevant countries will not over-interpret it, said Mao.

The test was conducted hours after Australia signed a new defence pact with its Pacific island neighbour Fiji.

Why was the pact signed?

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka signed two agreements in Suva—the Vuvale Union and the Ocean of Peace Alliance—which Australia described as among the most significant bilateral agreements it has ever concluded.

According to Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the treaties are intended to deepen cooperation and strengthen the region's prosperity, security and resilience for generations to come.

The Ocean of Peace Alliance, a mutual defence treaty, commits Australia and Fiji to support each other during times of major security need.

"The signing of these two agreements represents one of the most significant endeavours Australia has undertaken with any country," Albanese said.untry."