Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has reiterated the robust relationship between Fiji and China, emphasizing mutual trust and respect for each country’s aspirations and sovereignty. This statement follows a meeting between Rabuka and President Xi Jinping in Beijing, where both leaders committed to enhancing bilateral relations.
Rabuka praised China’s accomplishments and expanding influence under Xi’s leadership, commending the strong ties built over the past 49 years. The discussions included ways for both nations to utilize their strengths to strengthen their collaboration in various sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, fisheries, education, sports, tourism, poverty alleviation, and other areas within the context of high-quality Belt and Road Cooperation for shared development.
As Rabuka concluded his official trip to China, he expressed gratitude to Xi and the Chinese government for their hospitality, noting his admiration for China’s transformation over the past thirty years under Xi’s strategic and visionary leadership.
He also reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to the One China Principle, a foundation of their diplomatic relationship that has evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership based on mutual respect and shared development goals. Rabuka extended an invitation for President Xi to visit Fiji, which was accepted.
In response, President Xi acknowledged the importance of China-Fiji relations and expressed China’s willingness to assist Fiji in its economic and social development. He noted that Fiji was the first Pacific island nation to establish diplomatic ties with China, highlighting their mutual support over 49 years of friendship.
During the meeting, Xi briefed Rabuka on his previous visits to Yunnan, Fujian, and Zhejiang provinces, where Rabuka observed China’s success in poverty alleviation. Xi pointed out the significant achievement of building a moderately prosperous society for over 1.4 billion people under the Communist Party of China’s leadership.
Furthermore, Xi shared China’s aspirations to strengthen itself and rejuvenate the nation through Chinese modernization that focuses on peaceful development. As a member of the Global South, he committed to assisting Fiji and other Pacific island nations tackle climate change and enhance development cooperation, with the aim of fostering peace, friendship, and collaboration in the Pacific region.