Pacific island nations need action, not just words, ministry says

Beijing on Thursday said respect and concern for Pacific island countries should be implemented in actions rather than in words.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying made the remarks at a news conference after Australia urged Britain and other Commonwealth nations to enhance their engagement in the Pacific region.

The call from Australia came amid what it called concerns about the growing influence of China, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.

The call comes after the construction of a "Chinese mammoth port" in Vanuatu fuelled concerns about China's ability to extend its naval power in the region.

The report has triggered a denial from the Vanuatu government, the Vanuatu Daily Post published an article saying China's plans to build a military base in the country "was never in the cards".

Vanuatu announced on Monday the evacuation of 11,000 people from the volcanic island of Ambae and beginning this week, the Chinese-built base will be the landing point for them.

The article said that "If you want us to listen to you, you've got to listen to us".

Relevant countries should "swallow their pride" and listen to the voice of Pacific island countries, Hua said, adding that tarnishing and containing others will not win respect.