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The Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka met with His Excellency Mr Li Qiang, Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China in Beijing yesterday.
The historic meeting reaffirmed Fiji and China’s longstanding relationship which has been characterised by shared aspirations and common interests, fostering a comprehensive strategic partnership based on mutual trust and respect.
Upon his arrival at the Great Hall of the People, Prime Minister Rabuka was accorded a 130- member guard of honor comprising men and women of the People’s Liberation Army.
During the meeting, he conveyed the Fiji delegation’s appreciation to the Government of the Republic of China and her people for the warm hospitality accorded to them, stating that the reception has been overwhelming.
PM Rabuka acknowledged the One China Policy which has been the cornerstone of our diplomatic relations, adding that it was China that stood by Fiji when traditional partners turned away after the events of 1987, 2000 and 2006.
The two leaders discussed priority areas such as poverty alleviation, infrastructure development including land and maritime connectivity, the belt and road initiative and rural revitalisation.
PM Rabuka highlighted that Fiji seeks to implement a comprehensive infrastructure development program with China that will transform the country’s infrastructure in the years ahead.
In acknowledging the Belt and Road Initiative, he commended China for the assistance by the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), on the upgrade of 82 kilometers of the Vanua Levu road network.
On regional priorities, the PM reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to regionalism through the implementation of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, which will leverage our strengths in areas of common challenges such as climate change, preservation of our oceans and conflict resolution.
In concluding, PM Rabuka acknowledged China’s efforts and support towards the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through the Global Development Initiative (GDI).
Fiji looks forward to China’s continued support on the need for a reformed multilateralism that creates a more accountable, inclusive, just and equitable international system to address the challenges of the 21st century, including the voice of small developing nations.
Premier Li, in his response, reiterated China’s continued support in areas of common interest, particularly in the poverty alleviation and infrastructure development sectors.
He also emphasised that China will further strengthen its cooperation with Fiji through the high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative, while actively advancing the Global Development Initiative.
Premier Li thanked the Prime Minister for the opportunity to meet, reaffirming their commitment to elevate China and Fiji’s strong and enduring relationship.
