Xi: China focuses on climate support for Pacific Island Countries

Xi: China focuses on climate support for Pacific Island Countries and reinforces key importance of empowerment of these countries.

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa in Beijing on Tuesday, emphasizing China’s commitment to making climate change a central focus of its cooperation with Pacific Island nations. Xi expressed China’s readiness to assist these nations in addressing climate challenges, reinforcing the priority of empowering them in this area.

Xi highlighted that China would collaborate with Pacific Island countries to fully implement the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and its Paris Agreement. He reaffirmed China’s dedication to the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities” and emphasized fairness, justice, and the shared interests of the Global South in building a community with a shared future for all.

Acknowledging that Samoa was one of the first Pacific Island nations to establish diplomatic relations with China nearly fifty years ago, Xi noted the longstanding friendship and mutual respect between the two nations. Additionally, he emphasized China’s support for Samoa’s sovereignty, independence, and its right to choose a development path that suits its unique circumstances.

Furthermore, Xi confirmed that China would continue to aid Samoa’s economic and social development, seeking to enhance cooperation in key areas like trade, investment, agriculture, and fisheries for shared growth. He also reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Samoa’s progress through collaborative efforts.

Xi also assured that China’s assistance to Pacific Island countries is free of political conditions, emphasizing that its policy is open, inclusive, and not aimed at geopolitical competition or influence over any third parties. China’s cooperation is based on mutual benefit, without any strings attached.

Samoan PM Remarks

Prime Minister Mata’afa expressed Samoa’s desire to learn from China’s development experiences, particularly in areas such as poverty reduction and green development. She thanked China for its long-standing support and reiterated Samoa’s commitment to the one-China principle and its backing of Xi’s proposed initiatives, including the Global Development, Security, and Civilization Initiatives.

Mata’afa stressed Samoa’s view of China as an essential strategic partner and expressed her country’s eagerness to further strengthen bilateral ties, particularly in celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year.