China has committed to enhancing its trade relationship with Fiji during a recent meeting in Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his support for Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s “Ocean of Peace” initiative, just days before the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in Tonga.
The Chinese government has also vowed to strengthen trade ties with Fiji, which aims to improve its ports, shipbuilding, roadways, and sewage systems. However, the country is seeking better trade agreements for its agricultural and fisheries sectors to address its significant debt, as reported by state media.
“China appreciates Prime Minister Rabuka’s vision for an Ocean of Peace and is committed to working with Fiji to contribute to international peace and security,” Xi stated, according to a readout made public on Tuesday.
Rabuka is set to travel to Tonga next week for the PIF, which gathers leaders from 18 Pacific island nations to discuss a regional policing proposal supported by Australia.
Before embarking on his 10-day tour of China, Rabuka emphasized his intent not to disrupt regional security in the Pacific, where China and the United States vie for influence. Since returning as prime minister in 2022, he has advocated for an “Ocean of Peace” foreign policy aimed at fostering engagement with all major powers while steering clear of militarization in the region.
“I am very much encouraged by your principles and your ideas on peaceful coexistence and progress. They align with what I envision for the concept of the Ocean of Peace,” Rabuka told Xi, noting that he would bring up the Chinese leader’s endorsement of the plan during next week’s PIF.