Sep 1, 2026 – 5.00amChina has threatened Taiwan with consequences for sending a delegation to the Pacific Islands Forum as great power competition looms over the summit in Palau despite appeals by regional leaders for the freedom to decide their priorities and future without outside political interference.As Prime Minister Anthony Albanese walked the red carpet with fellow leaders at the summit’s opening ceremony in Koror on Monday evening, the celebration was as much notable for who was not taking a seat of honour in front of the stage hosting the archipelago’s traditional dance performances.Subscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? Fetching latest articles