Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent visit to Beijing, just a week ahead of an important gathering of Pacific leaders and development partners in Tonga, is seen as a positive step for Fiji. During this trip, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for a better understanding of China.
Following their discussions, President Xi Jinping expressed his support for Rabuka’s initiative, the Ocean of Peace, amidst concerns regarding the growing influence of China in the Pacific region. Rabuka pointed out that the key issue is not China’s presence, but rather the fear surrounding it.
He stated, “Perhaps we have been living under fear for so long; we need to understand China. We have a better understanding of the United States now because of our longer relationship.” He further encouraged mutual friendships, saying that being friends with China does not conflict with the relationship with the United States, and that fear should not arise from these connections.
Leaders from the Pacific Islands are the stewards of the vast resources of the Pacific Ocean, which attract many countries, both traditional allies and new partners. These leaders engage in discussions during the Forum that cover a variety of issues, including decolonization, development, climate financing, and geopolitical concerns.
Rabuka noted, “China has only recently opened up; they have been behind that bamboo curtain for so long. We shut them down, we shut them off. Now we need to reach out and understand them.” He stressed the importance of conducting foreign affairs in a manner that respects the sovereignty of other nations.
He added that there is mutual understanding regarding development needs and respect for sovereignty. Rabuka also indicated that China’s involvement in the forum signals its strategic interest in the region and its global significance.