Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent visit to Beijing comes just a week before Pacific leaders and development partners meet in Tonga, presenting a new opportunity for Fiji. During his visit, the Prime Minister advocated for a better understanding of China.
Following a bilateral meeting with President Xi Jinping, the Chinese leader expressed his support for Rabuka’s “Ocean of Peace” initiative, amid growing concerns about China’s increasing influence in the Pacific region. Rabuka emphasized that the real issue is fear rather than China’s presence itself.
“We may have been living in fear for too long; it’s time to understand China. Our understanding of the United States has deepened over time due to our long-standing relationship,” Rabuka stated. He also added, “Being friends with China doesn’t mean losing our friendship with the United States. If some individuals feel differently, that should not instill fear.”
The leaders of Pacific Islands hold significant resources in the Pacific Ocean, which attracts the interest of various countries. They utilize the Forum to address pressing issues such as decolonization, development, climate finance, and geopolitical dynamics.
“China has just recently opened up; they have been secluded for a long time,” Rabuka remarked. “We isolated them, but now it’s crucial to engage and understand them.”
He stressed the need for conducting foreign affairs in a manner that respects the sovereignty of all nations involved. “We communicate effectively, we acknowledge our developmental needs, and we respect each other’s sovereignty,” Rabuka explained.
Furthermore, he pointed out that China’s participation in the upcoming forum signifies its heightened importance to the region, both strategically for itself and in the international arena.