Top legislator touts China-Fiji ties

Wu Bangguo, China's top legislator, said on Thursday that good relations between China and Fiji will lead to the stability and growth of the Asia-Pacific region.

The remarks were made in a written speech released upon Wu's arrival in Nadi, Fiji, at around 9pm local time.

This is the first visit ever of the chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee to the South Pacific island nation.

Wu said that Fiji was the first Pacific island country to establish diplomatic relations with China, and that bilateral ties have progressed well since diplomatic relations were established in 1975.

The trip is expected to consolidate the friendly relations between the two countries, deepen political trust and boost cooperation, Wu said.

During the three-day visit, Wu is scheduled to meet Fiji's President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau and Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama to exchange views on bilateral ties and other issues.