Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is set to embark on a 10-day trip to China from August 12 to August 21, following an invitation from Premier Li Qiang of the State Council.
This announcement was made by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning during a press briefing where he provided further details regarding the visit and China’s expectations.
Mao mentioned that during this visit, the leaders of China and Fiji would engage in extensive discussions on enhancing China-Fiji relations as well as on significant matters of mutual interest. He highlighted that this year, China has welcomed various leaders from Pacific island nations, and Rabuka’s upcoming visit underscores the strong ties between China and the South Pacific region.
Mao expressed that through this visit, China aims to elevate the comprehensive strategic partnership characterized by mutual respect and collaborative development, and to work together with Fiji towards building a closer community with a shared future for China and Pacific Island countries.
Fiji has the distinction of being the first Pacific island nation to establish diplomatic relations with China, a milestone that occurred 49 years ago.