Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka arrived in Beijing on Saturday evening for an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.
According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, leaders from both countries will engage in in-depth discussions on China-Fiji relations and significant issues of mutual interest during the visit. “Through this visit, China hopes to take the comprehensive strategic partnership featuring mutual respect and common development to a new level and work with Fiji to build an even closer community with a shared future between China and Pacific Island countries,” the ministry stated.
Fiji, comprising 332 islands in the South Pacific Ocean, holds the distinction of being the first Pacific Island country to establish diplomatic ties with China. The relationship has grown over the years, with last year’s trade between the two countries reaching approximately $526 million.
China’s main exports to Fiji include machinery and equipment, electrical appliances, electronic products, computers and communication technology, automobiles, and ships. In return, China imports bauxite, frozen fish, logs and sawn timber, and beverages from Fiji.
Prime Minister Rabuka’s visit follows recent trips by several other South Pacific leaders to China, signaling a strengthening of ties between China and Pacific Island nations. The discussions are expected to focus on enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, and infrastructure development.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
