In Beijing yesterday, Li Qiang, the Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, engaged in discussions with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. Their meeting emphasized the deep-rooted friendship between China and Fiji, built on mutual trust and shared objectives.
Prime Minister Rabuka was received at the Great Hall of the People with a formal ceremony, including a guard of honor made up of 130 members of the People’s Liberation Army. He expressed appreciation for the warm welcome and the hospitality extended by the Chinese government during the summit.
During their discussions, Rabuka highlighted Fiji’s commitment to the One China Policy and acknowledged China’s support during critical moments in Fiji’s history, notably after the political upheavals of 1987, 2000, and 2006. The leaders addressed key issues such as the Belt and Road Initiative, infrastructure development, rural revitalization, and enhancing connectivity both by land and sea.
Rabuka expressed hope for a collaborative approach with China to implement a wide-ranging infrastructure development program aimed at transforming Fiji’s infrastructure in the near future. He commended China’s aid through the China International Development Cooperation Agency for enhancing 82 kilometers of the Vanua Levu road network while also recognizing the importance of the Belt and Road Initiative.
On a regional scale, Rabuka reiterated Fiji’s commitment to regionalism, announcing the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, which aims to leverage Fiji’s strengths in tackling challenges like climate change and ocean conservation.
In closing, he acknowledged China’s role in supporting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through the Global Development Initiative. Fiji anticipates continued Chinese support for the push towards a reformed multilateralism that champions accountability and equity, particularly for smaller developing nations.
In response, Premier Li confirmed China’s commitment to providing assistance in mutual interest areas, particularly infrastructure development and poverty alleviation. He also indicated that China will push forward the Global Development Initiative and enhance cooperation with Fiji through the Belt and Road Initiative.
Li expressed gratitude to Rabuka for the meeting, reaffirming their mutual aim to strengthen the longstanding partnership between China and Fiji.