China, Fiji Agree to Deepen Partnership
“China will import more products from Fiji, supports Chinese enterprises to invest in Fiji,” he added.
Tuesday 20 August 2024 | 16:45
Chinese Premier Li Qiang (right), with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who is on an official visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, on August 18, 2024. Photo: China Daily
China has always regarded Fiji as one of its most important cooperation partners in the South Pacific region.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang highlighted these during his meeting with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka on Sunday in Beijing.
Mr Li said Fiji is the first Pacific Island country to establish diplomatic ties with China. Mr Rabuka said that Fiji always regarded China as a reliable partner, firmly abided by the one-China principle, supporting the Belt and Road Initiative and other initiatives.
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He added that Fiji is willing to deepen cooperation with China on the economy and trade, infrastructure, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and connectivity to open up new, broad prospects for bilateral partnership.
Mr Li said China would always firmly support the Fijian people in pursuing the development path they have independently chosen and stands ready to work with Fiji to deliver on the common understandings reached between the leaders of the two countries.
“China will continue to be true friends with Fiji, friends who trust and support each other and strengthen exchanges at all levels, push forward the sound, steady development of the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership, and bring more benefits to the two peoples,” Mr Li said.
He added the two countries should further leverage their complementary advantages and deepen cooperation on infrastructure, agriculture and fisheries, light industry, education, tourism, and poverty reduction under the framework of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation.
“China will import more products from Fiji, supports Chinese enterprises to invest in Fiji,” he added.
Mr Li said that China supports Pacific Island countries in following the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. China will also work closely with Fiji and other island nations to promote the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilisation Initiative.
The goal is to support a fair, balanced multipolar world and inclusive global economic growth.
