In a bid to deepen regional collaboration, China and Pacific Island Countries (PICs) recently concluded a two-day tourism exchange session in Fiji, signaling a renewed focus on economic and diplomatic partnerships. The event, held in Nadi, brought together officials and industry experts from 10 Pacific nations and regions, including Fiji and Vanuatu, to explore sustainable tourism strategies and cultural exchanges.
Adela Issachar Aru, chairperson of the Pacific Tourism Organization, emphasized China's growing influence as a vital tourism market for the region. The discussions align with broader cooperation frameworks established during the inaugural China-PICs Foreign Ministers' Meeting in 2021. This momentum is set to accelerate as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi prepares to host the third such meeting in Xiamen on May 27–28, marking the first in-person gathering on the Chinese mainland.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated the meeting will address multilateral cooperation, regional stability, and shared economic goals. Since 2021, China has expanded diplomatic ties with 11 PICs, including Nauru's resumption of relations in January 2024. Leaders from Fiji, Samoa, and other PICs have made high-profile visits to China this year, underscoring deepening political and economic alignment.
Analysts note these developments reflect China's commitment to fostering 'comprehensive partnerships' in the Pacific, combining infrastructure investment, climate resilience initiatives, and cultural diplomacy to bolster regional integration.
