Regional development, cooperation strengthened at bilateral leaders' meetings

Fiji

President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China's commitment to relations with Pacific island countries during his meeting with Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, saying the nation fully respects their sovereignty and independence without attaching any political conditions or making empty promises.

Xi said that China's policies toward Pacific island countries are open and aboveboard, without any hidden agendas, and do not target any third parties.

China and Pacific island nations are all developing countries and should strengthen mutual assistance within the framework of South-South cooperation, he said.

Xi said China sees Fiji as a good friend and partner, and supports Fiji's independent choice of its development path and national revitalization.

Noting that the one-China principle is the political foundation for the healthy and stable development of China-Fiji relations, he expressed the hope that Fiji will continue to firmly support China on issues related to China's core interests and major concerns.

The nation will continue to support Fiji in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, he added.

Xi emphasized that China is willing to strengthen cooperation with Fiji in jointly building the Belt and Road, implement the Global Development Initiative, promote collaboration in infrastructure, agriculture, forestry, fisheries, new energy and other fields, and support Fiji's economic and social development.

Rabuka said that Fiji adheres to the one-China principle. The Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, all proposed by Xi, serve the interests of developing countries and promote and safeguard the development and interests of the Global South, he said.