Yesterday in Beijing, the Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, Li Qiang, held a meeting with Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
This meeting strengthened the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations, based on mutual trust and respect, and reaffirmed the long-standing relationship characterized by shared interests and objectives.
Prime Minister Rabuka was received with a guard of honor comprising 130 members from the People’s Liberation Army at the Great Hall of the People. He expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and hospitality extended by the Chinese government during the summit.
Rabuka acknowledged the One China Policy as a foundation of their diplomatic relations, noting China’s support for Fiji during challenging times in 1987, 2000, and 2006 when traditional allies withdrew.
During the discussions, key topics included the Belt and Road Initiative, rural revitalization, infrastructure development, and enhancing land and sea connectivity. Rabuka highlighted Fiji’s ambition to collaborate with China on a comprehensive infrastructure development program that would transform the nation’s infrastructure in the upcoming years.
He commended the assistance from the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) in upgrading 82 kilometers of the Vanua Levu road network and recognized the importance of the Belt and Road Initiative.
Rabuka reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to regionalism by announcing the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, aiming to leverage its strengths to tackle climate change, ocean conservation, and conflict resolution.
In conclusion, he expressed appreciation for China’s contributions to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through the Global Development Initiative (GDI). Fiji anticipates continued support from China in advocating for reformed multilateralism to ensure a more accountable and equitable global system for small developing states.
In response, Premier Li pledged China’s ongoing assistance in areas of mutual interest, particularly infrastructure development and poverty alleviation. He reiterated China’s commitment to advancing the Global Development Initiative while enhancing cooperation with Fiji through the Belt and Road Initiative.
Premier Li thanked Prime Minister Rabuka for the meeting and underscored their shared goal of strengthening the enduring partnership between China and Fiji.