Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Kiribati’s President and Foreign Minister Taneti Maamau co-hosted the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on Wednesday in Xiamen, Fujian Province, eastern China.
Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized that this year marks five decades since diplomatic ties began between China and the Pacific Island nations. He reiterated that China has consistently viewed these countries as sincere friends, reliable partners, and close brothers.
He noted that with guidance from top leaders, the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Pacific Island nations has gained new momentum, produced tangible outcomes, and reached higher levels of cooperation.
Wang proposed six key areas to shape a shared future between China and Pacific Island nations: mutual respect, development-focused collaboration, people-oriented governance, mutual learning and cultural exchange, fairness and justice, and solidarity in difficult times.
He affirmed China’s belief that in the face of global shifts and historic changes, the only correct path is one that prioritizes peace, development, cooperation, and shared benefits.
Pacific Island foreign ministers expressed their appreciation for China’s long-term, meaningful support. They highlighted that their partnership with China is founded on mutual respect, trust, understanding, and sovereign equality. These ties are based on the independent choices of the island nations and align with their core interests while contributing to regional peace, stability, and prosperity.
They unanimously reiterated support for the one-China principle and expressed eagerness to deepen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, climate action, and green development. They also expressed strong interest in further advancing Belt and Road cooperation and building a peaceful, thriving Pacific region together with China.
Following comprehensive discussions on enhancing collaboration and addressing global and regional concerns, China and the Pacific Island nations reached five shared agreements:
First, both sides agreed to treat each other as equals. China continues to advocate for the equality of all countries, regardless of size, and welcomes the reaffirmation of the one-China principle and support for China’s sovereign rights.
Second, they committed to pursuing joint development. This includes aligning the Belt and Road Initiative with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. China will also facilitate greater market access for Pacific Island exports, helping these countries benefit from China’s vast consumer base.
Third, they pledged to uphold justice and fairness. Using the 80th anniversary of the UN’s founding as a catalyst, both sides will promote multilateralism and protect the rights of developing countries.
Fourth, they advocated openness and inclusivity. The global community should respect Pacific nations’ freedom to choose their development partners. Key issues like climate change, economic progress, and public welfare must remain top priorities in external relations.
Fifth, they emphasized the importance of mutual learning and civilizational exchange. Chinese civilization and the maritime heritage of the Pacific Islands are both priceless to humanity. Both sides aim to deepen their longstanding friendship through the Global Civilization Initiative and expand cooperation in education, culture, media, and more to jointly elevate human progress.
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