Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent trip to Beijing, just a week ahead of the gathering of Pacific leaders and development partners in Tonga, reflects a promising shift for Fiji. During his visit, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for a better understanding of China.
After discussions with President Xi Jinping, who expressed his backing for Rabuka’s initiative on promoting an “Ocean of Peace,” concerns regarding China’s growing influence in the Pacific region were addressed. Rabuka highlighted the real issue at hand was not China’s presence, but rather the fear surrounding it.
“Perhaps we have been living under fear for too long; we need to understand China. Our relationship with the United States has developed over a longer period, and that understanding has grown,” Rabuka remarked. He added that fostering friendships with China should not create fear about relations with the United States.
The Pacific Islands, as stewards of the vast Pacific Ocean, hold significant resources that are of interest to various nations. The upcoming Forum will serve as a platform for Pacific Island leaders to address pressing issues such as decolonization, development, climate financing, and geopolitical dynamics.
“China has recently begun to engage more openly; they have been isolated for a long time,” Rabuka noted. “We need to reach out and comprehend their perspective.”
He underlined the importance of conducting foreign affairs in a manner that respects the sovereignty of all nations involved. “We understand each other’s developmental needs and mutual respect for sovereignty,” he stated.
Rabuka remarked that China’s participation in the forum signifies the country’s increased strategic importance in the region, both for its own interests and for global awareness.