China has consistently viewed Fiji as a key partner in the South Pacific. This was underscored by Chinese Premier Li Qiang during his meeting with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka in Beijing on Sunday.
Premier Li noted that Fiji was the first Pacific Island nation to establish diplomatic relations with China. In response, Prime Minister Rabuka emphasized that Fiji sees China as a dependable ally, adheres to the one-China principle, and supports initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative. He expressed Fiji’s readiness to enhance cooperation with China across various sectors including trade, infrastructure, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and connectivity to create new opportunities for collaboration.
Li affirmed that China is committed to supporting the Fijian people’s chosen developmental path and is prepared to collaborate with Fiji to implement the mutual agreements reached between their leaders. He stated, “China will remain true friends with Fiji, who trust and support each other, boost exchanges at all levels, advance the stable development of the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership, and bring additional benefits to both peoples.”
He further encouraged both countries to leverage their respective strengths and enhance cooperation in infrastructure, agriculture, fisheries, light industry, education, tourism, and poverty alleviation within the framework of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. Li also mentioned that China would import more products from Fiji and support Chinese businesses investing in the nation.
Additionally, Li reiterated China’s backing for Pacific Island countries in implementing the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. He expressed China’s readiness to work closely with Fiji and other island nations to promote the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilisation Initiative, aiming for a just, balanced multipolar world and inclusive global economic growth.