Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has reiterated the strong ties between Fiji and China, highlighting a relationship grounded in mutual trust and respect for each nation’s sovereignty. This affirmation followed a meeting with President Xi Jinping in Beijing, where both leaders committed to enhancing bilateral relations.
During his visit, Prime Minister Rabuka expressed admiration for China’s progress and increasing global influence under President Xi’s leadership, emphasizing the 49-year-long partnership between the two countries. The discussions centered on leveraging their respective strengths to strengthen cooperation in various sectors, including infrastructure development, agriculture, fisheries, education, sports, tourism, and poverty alleviation, all within the framework of quality Belt and Road Cooperation aimed at fostering shared growth.
As his official visit concluded, Prime Minister Rabuka expressed gratitude to President Xi and the Chinese government for their warm hospitality and praised the remarkable transformation China has undergone over the past three decades under the President’s visionary leadership. He reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to the One China Principle, which has been fundamental to their diplomatic relationship, evolving into a comprehensive strategic partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared development goals.
The Prime Minister extended an invitation to President Xi to visit Fiji, which was accepted. In response, President Xi emphasized China’s commitment to supporting Fiji’s economic and social development and acknowledged the longstanding diplomatic relationship, noting that Fiji was the first Pacific island nation to establish such ties with China.
During the meeting, President Xi briefed PM Rabuka on his recent visits to various Chinese provinces, showcasing China’s achievements in poverty alleviation. He described the construction of a moderately prosperous society for over 1.4 billion people as a significant accomplishment under the leadership of the Communist Party of China.
Furthermore, President Xi indicated that China is focused on becoming a stronger nation and revitalizing the Chinese community through peaceful development and modernization. He expressed China’s readiness to assist Fiji and other Pacific island nations in addressing climate change and improving development cooperation, aspiring to establish the Pacific region as one of peace, friendship, and collaboration.