Toward Programme
Australia and Fiji sign a new defence pact as China launches a ballistic missile test in the Pacific. What does it all mean? - The Conversation
GNews: The Conversation Major outlet·2026-07-07AllianceP6: Defence SurgeP7: Alliance ArchitectureP8: Northern Arc
Why it matters
The Australia–Fiji defence pact signals Australia's strategic pivot toward the Pacific Islands to consolidate the Northern Arc and counter PLA regional influence. China's concurrent ballistic missile test underscores the direct security pressure motivating this alliance-building, reinforcing the salience of Pillar 8 (Northern Arc) and Pillar 7 (Alliance) to Australian preparedness.
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