The People’s Republic of China has stated that they would continue to stand by the people of Fiji when they are in need.

This was stated by China’s ambassador to Fiji Qian Bo at the handover event of China-aid disaster relief equipment for Tropical Cyclone Josie to the Ministry for Disaster Management yesterday.

Speaking about the damage and loss of lives caused by Tropical Cyclone Josie, Mr Qian said: “We express our deep condolences to victims and family members of those affected and our hearts are with the people of Fiji.”

He said $40,000 worth of equipment such as chainsaws and portable water pumps were donated for the affected areas to the Ministry of Disaster Management.

“China has always been a steadfast and reliable partner in development for friends in Fiji. This has been tested true in the past and will be in the future,” Mr Qian said.

“Whenever there is a need, China is there”

Mr Qian said a new agency had been set up in China known as the State International Development Corporation Agency, aiming to co-ordinate better future assistance from China and to help the One Belt One Road initiative to connect with the development strategies in Fiji.

“I am sure with this agency being established, China will be in a better position to help our friends and to achieve common development in the future and push our bilateral relations to a new height,” Mr Qian said.

Minister for Agriculture, Rural and Maritime Development, National Disaster Management and Meteorological Services Inia Seruiratu said the Fijian Government acknowledged the assistance given during such events.

Tropical Cyclone Josie relief and recovery equipment donated by the Chinese Embassy on April 6, 2018. Photo: Simione Haranavanua

Mr Seruiratu said a donation was also given during Tropical Cyclone Gita recently.

“We are thankful that we have partners like the People’s Republic of China, for such kind assistance,” Mr Seruiratu said.

He said at the moment Government was developing a disaster risk development policy aligned to the Sendai Framework.

“We hope that this will help us to prepare better for the future and prepare to raise our level of resilience so that our people and the economy can cope well in future disasters.

“We have mentioned China will remain a reliable and steadfast development partner. We look forward to our continued corporation in the future.”

He added that the items donated would be put to good use.

He said most of the equipment would be used in areas such as Ba, where he would be visiting today.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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