In the bustling coastal city of Xiamen in the Chinese mainland, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who also serves on the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with Tonga’s Crown Prince and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, ahead of the third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
Wang Yi relayed warm greetings from President Xi Jinping to King Tupou VI and celebrated 27 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. “From natural disasters to a global pandemic, China and Tonga have stood side by side, turning our vision of a community with a shared future into reality,” he said.
The foreign minister emphasized China’s unwavering support for Tonga’s sovereignty, security and development. He praised Tonga’s adherence to the one-China principle and highlighted the Belt and Road Initiative as a driving force behind expanding cooperation from central to local governments, and from economic projects to cultural exchanges.
Looking beyond bilateral ties, Wang underscored the countries’ joint stance against unilateralism and protectionism, welcoming Tonga’s growing role in international affairs and its consistent backing of China’s positions in multilateral settings.
In turn, Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala conveyed King Tupou VI’s gratitude for China’s swift assistance during Tonga’s volcanic eruption and COVID-19 challenges. He applauded the “remarkable progress” in partnerships that have uplifted Tongan livelihoods and shared insights from his recent visit to Shandong Province in the Chinese mainland, where he explored Confucian thought.
Reaffirming Tonga’s steadfast commitment to the one-China principle, the crown prince proposed deepening collaboration in medical services, education and climate resilience. Both leaders expressed confidence that the upcoming foreign ministers’ meeting will pave the way for even stronger ties.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
