Filimone Jitoko, the Speaker of Parliament, is currently leading a delegation from Fiji’s Parliament on a significant week-long visit to China, gaining full support from the Chinese Government. The delegation includes key figures such as Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu, Minister for Immigration Viliame Naupoto, Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services Penioni Ravunawa, Opposition Whip Jone Usamate, Secretary-General to Parliament Jeanette Emberson, and Manager of Inter-Parliamentary Relations and Protocol Senitieli Wainiu.
A press release from the Parliament of Fiji highlighted that the delegation intends to visit three major provinces: Shanghai, Shaanxi, and Beijing, with a focus on strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation between the two nations.
This trip coincides with broader diplomatic activities as Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is set to make an official visit to China soon, where he will engage in discussions aimed at enhancing the comprehensive strategic partnership that has developed between Fiji and China over nearly 50 years. Fiji stands out as the first Pacific Island nation to establish diplomatic relations with China, marking a long history characterized by mutual respect and collaborative development.
These visits are essential for fostering dialogue that can lead to increased cooperation, not just between China and Fiji but throughout the Pacific region, thereby reinforcing global partnerships.
Overall, this visit signifies a hopeful advancement in Fiji’s international relations strategies and holds the promise of new economic and cultural exchanges, ultimately benefiting both nations through strengthened ties and shared progress.
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