PM wary of China’s intentions

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says New Zealand is opposed to the militarisation of the Pacific.

Her comments came after news reports that China has approached Vanuatu about building a permanent military presence in the South Pacific.

While no formal proposals have been put to Vanuatu’s government, there have been discussions between China and the island nation, and senior security officials believe Beijing’s plans could culminate in a full military base.

Yesterday, Ardern said New Zealand kept a watching eye on activity within the Pacific.

‘‘New Zealand is opposed to the militarisation of the Pacific,’’ she added.

She could not comment on the validity of the report, adding that her remarks were in response to media reports.

If those reports were correct, New Zealand had a number of ways it could raise its concerns, including in bilateral discussions, she said.

Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters said the militarisation of the Pacific was something New Zealand had been ‘‘seriously concerned about’’ for a while.

The Government had asked for further information about the reports, but would not be hypothesising on what it would do until it had all the information.

‘‘There were a number of players doing certain things in the Pacific that are not good for the peace and security, long-term, of the Pacific, or for the growth of democracy itself,’’ Peters said. ‘‘I believe that this is why we have to step up as a country.’’

❚ China eyes Vanuatu, World B2