Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) ad interim Wang Xuguang of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China yesterday paid an introductory courtesy call to the Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign, Sitiveni Rabuka.

Maintaining that Fiji and China friendship is upheld, the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the prospects for mutually beneficial cooperation in the key areas of socioeconomic development.

Mr Rabuka while conveying his best wishes to the People’s Republic of China on the occasion of the Chinese New Year, thanked China for the support they have provided to Fiji, over the years.

He said the contribution of the Chinese community towards nation building and improving the economic and social status of Fiji and the Pacific, was also acknowledged.

Fiji and China have shared bilateral relations over the last 48 years and he reaffirmed the Fiji Government’s support to the “One China Principle”- which is a long-standing international consensus.

Mr Rabuka said Fiji would be guided by the principles of mutual respect and meaningful collaboration to advance the common development priorities.

Mr Wang while responding to Mr Rabuka, reaffirmed the congratulations from the Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Mr Rabuka on his successful election and reasserted China’s support to strengthen cooperation with Fiji to benefit both nations’.

“I firmly believe that under your strong leadership, the Fijian people will make new and greater achievements in the national development and friendship between our two peoples’ will be further strengthened,” Mr Wang said.

“China and Fiji are good friends’, partners’ and brothers’ who always respect each other and pursue common development. Our friendship stands strong in good times and also challenging times. China appreciates the Fiji Government for adhering to the One-China Principle.”

“China will seek more opportunities to advance the two countries’ cooperation by synergising the Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Development Initiative with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.”
“The Chinese Government also stands ready to do more in many fields such as agriculture, fisheries, poverty reduction and climate response and disaster prevention,” Mr Wang said.

A new Chinese Ambassador is expected to be announced soon to replace Qian Bo. Mr Bo has since returned to Beijing after serving in Fiji for four years.

Story by: jone.salusalu@fijisun.com.fj