Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has praised China’s rural revitalization initiatives during his official visit to the country. This week, Rabuka explored the Yunnan Province in southwest China, expressing his desire for increased cooperation in rural development with local leaders.
In an interview with CGTN, the Prime Minister shared his admiration for the transformation of a village since 1992, noting the significant differences he observed. “That is 32 years. I was Prime Minister of Fiji in 1992, and I’m Prime Minister again now. But nowhere in Fiji have we seen any improvement as close to what we have seen here. So I congratulate the leaders, the Chinese leaders of the past, and particularly present President Xi Jinping for the work that he has done, and his vision to concentrate his political efforts on alleviating poverty and improving the standard of living for the people of China, especially in disadvantaged areas with minority ethnic groups,” he stated.
On Tuesday, Rabuka visited Malipo, a county located along the China-Vietnam border, where he toured two villages, Ping’anpo and Nanyou. He observed the ongoing rural revitalization efforts focused on agricultural development, education, and the preservation of ethnic culture. He expressed his amazement at the rapid and significant changes in these remote villages.
Rabuka’s visit is part of his 10-day tour of the People’s Republic of China.