CNMI leaders raise concerns over China's Pacific missile test

CNMI Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds, a regional policy expert, and an independent candidate for the CNMI's seat in U.S. Congress have expressed concern over China's recent submarine-launched ballistic missile test in the South Pacific, saying it underscores the importance of maintaining peace, stability and strong partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.

"Too often people in Washington, D.C. talk about the Indo-Pacific like it's a map. For us, it's home. Our families live here. Our businesses are here. Our future is here. That's why we take developments like this seriously. We want a Pacific defined by stability, strong partnerships, and peace and we should all continue working towards that," King-Hinds said.

Angelo Villagomez of the Center for American Progress said the launch reflects Beijing's increasingly assertive posture in the Asia-Pacific and should prompt closer coordination between the United States and its regional allies.

"This is yet another indicator of Beijing's increasingly aggressive posture in the region, one that should prompt closer communication and collaboration between the United States and our friends and allies in the Asia Pacific region," Villagomez said.

He added that U.S. efforts to deter aggression would be stronger if Washington, D.C. were not sending mixed signals on Taiwan while overlooking other regional security challenges, including climate change.

Independent delegate candidate Galvin Deleon Guerrero said the missile test highlights why the CNMI must remain vigilant on national security.

"This is exactly why we need to be vigilant in defending our country," Deleon Guerrero said. "The threats are real, so our resolve must be steadfast." He said the CNMI's history of military service and strategic location should serve as reminders against sacrificing long-term security for short-term gains.

According to The Associated Press, China said the launch was part of routine annual military training, complied with international law and was not directed at any specific country. The missile, carrying a dummy warhead, was launched Monday from one of China's nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines in the South Pacific.

The test drew criticism from Australia, Japan, and New Zealand, while the United States said China's rapidly expanding and opaque nuclear weapons program remains a significant concern. Security analysts told AP the launch demonstrates China's growing sea-based nuclear deterrent and expanding military reach in the Pacific.