China has long considered Fiji a key partner in the South Pacific region. This sentiment was underscored by Chinese Premier Li Qiang during a meeting with Fijian 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 expressed that Fiji views China as a dependable ally, adhering to the one-China principle and supporting initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative.
Rabuka conveyed Fiji’s eagerness to enhance cooperation with China across various sectors, including the economy, trade, infrastructure, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and connectivity, paving the way for improved bilateral relations.
Li emphasized China’s commitment to supporting the Fijian people’s chosen development path and expressed a willingness to collaborate on fulfilling the mutual agreements established between the leaders of both nations. He affirmed that China aims to maintain a strong friendship with Fiji, focusing on trust, support, and increasing exchanges at all levels to promote steady growth in their comprehensive strategic partnership.
Additionally, Premier Li highlighted the necessity for both countries to capitalize on their respective strengths and deepen collaboration in infrastructure, agriculture, fisheries, light industry, education, tourism, and poverty alleviation, all within the framework of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. He also mentioned that China would import more products from Fiji and encouraged Chinese enterprises to invest in the island nation.
Li further stated that China will support the Pacific Island nations in adhering to the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. The country also aims to work in close partnership with Fiji and other islands to advance the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilisation Initiative, with the overarching goal of fostering a fair, balanced multipolar world and promoting inclusive global economic growth.