Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi co-chaired the Third China-Pacific Island Countries (PICs) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Xiamen, Fujian Province, alongside Kiribati President and Foreign Minister Taneti Maamau. This summit marks half a century of diplomatic relations between China and the PICs, a bond Wang described as rooted in friendship and mutual trust.
Wang highlighted that China-PICs cooperation has delivered real benefits to local communities, boosting regional peace, stability and prosperity. He emphasized that mutual respect and non-interference are cornerstones of the partnership, pledging China's support for the PICs in safeguarding their sovereignty, security and development interests.
Looking ahead, Wang outlined a roadmap for deeper collaboration under China's Global Development Initiative and the Belt and Road framework. Key priorities include fast-tracking bilateral free trade agreement talks, sharing agricultural and fishery technologies, and expanding sustainable tourism initiatives.
The minister also announced plans to strengthen exchanges on poverty alleviation and grassroots governance. This year, China will roll out 200 small and beautiful livelihood projects and dispatch seven batches of 56 medical staff, among them traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, to the Pacific Islands, aiming to enhance healthcare and well-being.
Reference(s):
Wang Yi calls for building China-PICs community with shared future
cgtn.com
