Pacific Island nations are gaining prominence on the global stage as they deepen ties with China through a fresh South-South cooperation model. Since 2021, five dedicated centers have been set up to drive sustainable development across the region:
- Reserve of Emergency Supplies
- Climate Action Cooperation Center
- Poverty Reduction and Development Cooperation Center
- Disaster Risk Reduction Cooperation Center
- Agriculture Cooperation and Demonstration Center
Central to this push is the China-Pacific Island Countries Climate Change Cooperation Center, established in 2022. By bringing together scientists, experts, enterprises and policymakers, the center focuses on green energy, low-carbon development and climate governance. Over 120 officials and specialists from Pacific Island nations have completed its training programs. In 2023, the center donated 10 family-scale solar electricity systems to Tonga, cutting household power costs by up to 80%.
Liaocheng City in Shandong Province on the Chinese mainland's east coast is emerging as a key overseas hub for Pacific Island countries. The city has formed sister-city ties with Fiji, Kiribati, Vanuatu and Tonga, hosting cultural exchanges to strengthen people-to-people bonds.
In 2024, the China-Pacific Island Countries Cooperation and Exchange Conference convened in Liaocheng, spotlighting cultural tourism, education, sports, low-carbon development and humanitarian aid. A major outcome was the launch of the China-Pacific Island Countries Green Development and Cooperation Alliance, which mobilizes enterprises, business associations and research institutions to support energy transition, ecosystem protection and climate-resilient infrastructure in the Pacific.
Later this month, a special tour called Decoding China's Rural Revitalization will showcase Liaocheng's countryside to Pacific Island guests. Participants will explore the Yellow River ecological corridor, visit modern agriculture parks producing Shenxian vegetables and Chiping fruits, and experience local food and culture, gaining insights into rural innovation on the mainland.
Education remains a cornerstone of South-South collaboration. Shandong Province offers scholarships for students from Pacific Island countries. Currently, 24 young people from Fiji, the Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea and Samoa are studying at Liaocheng University, learning Chinese language and culture alongside their degree programs. Growing student exchanges help nurture talent and deepen ties between communities.
As China and Pacific Island nations celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Fiji and Samoa, their partnership demonstrates the power of mutual respect and shared goals. Aligned with the Blue Pacific Continent Strategy, this new chapter of South-South cooperation aims to build a resilient, inclusive and prosperous Pacific region.
Reference(s):
China, Pacific Island nations set new South-South cooperation model
cgtn.com
