Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has reaffirmed the strong ties between Fiji and China, grounded in mutual trust and respect for each country’s sovereignty and aspirations. This commitment was underscored during a recent meeting between Rabuka and President Xi Jinping in Beijing, where both leaders agreed to enhance bilateral relations.
Rabuka expressed his admiration for China’s progress and increasing global influence under Xi’s leadership, emphasizing the enduring partnership formed over the last 49 years. The discussion included strategies to leverage the strengths of both nations to strengthen collaboration in sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, fisheries, education, sports, tourism, and poverty alleviation, all within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative aimed at fostering shared development.
As his visit to China wrapped up, Rabuka thanked Xi and the Chinese government for their warm hospitality. He praised China’s transformation over the past three decades, attributing this progress to Xi’s strategic and visionary leadership.
The Prime Minister also reiterated Fiji’s commitment to the One China Principle, which has been essential to their diplomatic relationship, evolving into a comprehensive strategic partnership focused on mutual respect and development.
Rabuka extended an invitation to President Xi to visit Fiji, which the President accepted. In his response, Xi emphasized China’s commitment to strengthening relations with Fiji and pledged continued support for the country’s economic and social development.
Highlighting Fiji’s significance as the first Pacific island nation to foster diplomatic relations with China, Xi pointed out the mutual support the two countries have provided each other over their 49 years of friendship. He also briefed Rabuka on his earlier visits to Chinese provinces to observe initiatives in poverty alleviation.
Xi noted the achievement of building a moderately prosperous society for over 1.4 billion people in China and stated that the nation is focused on becoming stronger and rejuvenating under the Communist Party’s leadership, while promoting peaceful development.
In support of the Global South, President Xi expressed China’s readiness to assist Fiji and other Pacific island nations in combating climate change and enhancing development cooperation, with the aim of fostering peace, friendship, and collaboration in the Pacific region.