The vice president of the Center for China and Globalization (CCG), Victor Gao, has cautioned Australia regarding its plans to acquire nuclear-powered submarines as part of the AUKUS pact. This warning follows China’s recent test of a nuclear-capable ballistic missile in the Pacific region.
“Australia ought to value its status as a nuclear-free nation,” Gao remarked during an interview with 7.30. “It is advisable to avoid becoming a nuclear state, as the repercussions are unpredictable.”
Gao further emphasized China’s nuclear capabilities, asserting that they rival those of the United States. According to estimates from the Pentagon, as of 2024, China’s stockpile of nuclear warheads is projected to exceed 1,000 by 2030.
He warned other nations against the idea of waging a nuclear conflict with China, implying that the country possesses sufficient nuclear firepower to retaliate decisively against any aggressor. “This is the strategic certainty that exists today,” he added.
The comments came in light of China’s recent missile test, which Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and other Pacific leaders condemned as “provocative.” Gao, however, characterized the launch from a nuclear submarine as “very routine,” noting that it marked China’s first such test since a land-based launch in September 2024.
When questioned about potential future tests, Gao reiterated China’s nuclear capabilities, claiming they could reach any location globally within approximately 20 minutes. “No country should hinder China’s testing activities,” he stated, expressing hope that countries, including Australia, would acknowledge China’s commitment to not using nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states.
The timing of China’s missile test coincided with the unveiling of the Ocean of Peace Alliance by Albanese and Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, an agreement forged through months of confidential discussions. Gao contended that the missile test was unrelated to this alliance and was instead aligned with the anniversary of a historical incident involving Japan in 1937.
In response to the missile launch, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong described the test as “destabilizing,” while also refraining from speculating on China’s intentions behind it.
Gao, supporting the position of China’s foreign ministry, asserted that China acted within its rights to conduct the missile test. “Australia should not be surprised by this development,” he remarked, emphasizing that China had adhered to international protocols by notifying concerned nations in advance of the test.
“Australia should appreciate that China provided advance notice regarding the testing,” he added. Gao expressed a desire for China and Australia to strengthen their relationship, not only as significant trading partners but also in political and geopolitical matters. He asserted that the Pacific region is not off-limits for nuclear testing, affirming China’s legitimacy in conducting such operations without breaching international protocols.
