Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent visit to Beijing, which occurred just a week prior to a gathering of Pacific leaders and development partners in Tonga, represents a significant engagement for Fiji. The trip has inspired the Prime Minister to advocate for a better understanding of China’s role in the Pacific.
During the meetings, President Xi Jinping expressed his backing for Mr. Rabuka’s ‘Ocean of Peace’ initiative, amid ongoing concerns regarding China’s increasing influence in the area. However, Mr. Rabuka indicated that the real issue at hand is not merely China’s presence but the anxiety surrounding it.
“We may have lived in fear for so long; it’s time we started understanding China. Our understanding of the United States has grown due to a history of closer ties,” Mr. Rabuka noted. He added, “Being friends with China does not mean we cannot also be friends with the United States. Those who feel differently should not let that cause them fear.”
He highlighted that the Pacific Islands, being guardians of the vast resources of the Pacific Ocean, are of significant interest to both traditional and emerging global partners. The Pacific Island leaders utilize the Forum to address numerous pertinent issues, such as decolonization, development, climate financing, and geopolitics.
“China has only recently started engaging with the world after being closed off for so long. We need to learn about them now,” Mr. Rabuka stated. He stressed the importance of conducting foreign affairs in a way that respects the sovereignty of all nations.
“We understand each other’s needs for development and our respect for sovereignty,” he added. The Prime Minister remarked that China’s participation in the upcoming forum signifies the nation’s increasing strategic interest in the region, which is not only vital for China but also for the global community’s attention.