Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent 10-day visit to China focused on boosting economic cooperation between the two countries.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang invited Prime Minister Rabuka to visit China from August 12 to 21. This marked Prime Minister Rabuka’s first official trip to China since taking office after the 2022 elections and his second visit in 30 years.
During his visit, Rabuka met with key Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress.
Ambassador Zhou Jian highlighted that the visit set a clear direction for future partnerships, with a focus on agriculture, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure.
China showed interest in importing more high-quality Fijian products and encouraged Chinese investments in Fiji. The two countries agreed to expand collaboration in green infrastructure, clean energy, and environmental conservation. Rabuka reportedly showed interest in adopting China’s new energy solutions, including solar energy and electric vehicles.
The discussions also touched on global issues, with both nations reiterating their commitment to maintaining regional stability and promoting peaceful coexistence. The Chinese leaders also voiced their support for Rabuka’s vision of the Pacific as an “Ocean of Peace”.
The visit ended with the signing of several agreements, including a “Joint Statement,” serving as a roadmap for future collaboration.
Zhou also called for ongoing cooperation in education, trade, and green technology, emphasizing mutual respect and shared prosperity.