Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will chair the Third China-Pacific Island Countries (PICs) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Xiamen from May 28-29, marking the first in-person gathering of its kind on the Chinese mainland. Representatives from 11 Pacific nations with diplomatic ties to China will attend, including high-level officials from Kiribati, Niue, Tonga, and Papua New Guinea.
The meeting aims to strengthen China-PICs cooperation across climate resilience, economic development, and regional security. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized the nations' status as 'comprehensive strategic partners,' noting recent progress in infrastructure projects and disaster response coordination.
Key attendees include:
Kiribati President and Foreign Minister Taneti Maamau
Tonga's Crown Prince and Foreign Minister Tupouto'a 'Ulukalala
Papua New Guinea's Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko
Representatives from Fiji, Samoa, and the Pacific Islands Forum
Discussions will focus on implementing joint initiatives announced during previous leadership summits, particularly in sustainable fisheries management and renewable energy projects. Analysts suggest the talks could shape regional responses to rising sea levels and maritime resource challenges.
