China considers Fiji a crucial partner in the South Pacific region, according to Chinese Premier Li Qiang, who emphasized this 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.
Prime Minister Rabuka expressed that Fiji views China as a dependable partner, adhering firmly to the one-China principle and supporting the Belt and Road Initiative along with other collaborative efforts. He stated that Fiji is eager to enhance cooperation with China across various sectors, including economy and trade, infrastructure, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and connectivity, to explore new opportunities for their bilateral partnership.
During the meeting, Premier Li assured that China would continue to support the Fijian people in their chosen development path and is prepared to collaborate with Fiji to implement the mutual agreements reached by the leaders of both nations. He emphasized that China will remain a true friend to Fiji, built on trust and mutual support, while promoting exchanges at all levels to advance the well-rounded development of their comprehensive strategic partnership, ultimately benefiting both peoples.
Li further suggested that the two countries should capitalize on their complementary strengths and enhance cooperation in sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, fisheries, light industry, education, tourism, and poverty alleviation, particularly within the framework of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. He committed to increasing imports from Fiji and supporting Chinese investments in the nation.
Additionally, Premier Li reiterated China’s support for Pacific Island nations in adhering to the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and indicated a readiness to work closely with Fiji and other island states to promote the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilisation Initiative. The overarching aim is to foster a fairer, balanced multipolar world and encourage inclusive global economic growth.