The Chinese president met with Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele of the Solomon Islands in Beijing on Friday, signaling a strengthened alliance between the two nations. During the meeting, the Chinese president emphasized China's commitment to enhancing strategic communication, safeguarding core interests, and addressing major concerns of the Solomon Islands.
Key areas of cooperation discussed included the Belt and Road Initiative, which aligns with the Solomon Islands' development strategy. The discussions also focused on rural development, medical services, infrastructure, sustainable development, and climate change, highlighting a comprehensive approach to mutual growth.
\"China consistently adheres to an independent foreign policy of peace and advocates for the equality of all countries, regardless of their size, strength or wealth,\" the Chinese president stated. He further elaborated that China's friendly cooperation with the Solomon Islands and other Pacific nations is a sincere effort to support development within the framework of South-South cooperation.
Prime Minister Manele praised China's pursuit of multilateralism, noting that initiatives such as the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative are instrumental in promoting world peace, stability, and common development. These initiatives are particularly significant for smaller nations like the Solomon Islands.
The Solomon Islands have seen significant advancements in infrastructure construction through their participation in the Belt and Road Initiative, Prime Minister Manele noted. He reaffirmed the Solomon Islands' commitment to the one-China principle, firmly opposing any form of \"Taiwan independence,\" and expressed strong support for all efforts by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification.
The Prime Minister concluded by expressing hopes to further deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership with China and build a community with a shared future between the two countries, underscoring the commitment to long-term collaboration and mutual prosperity.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
