Bridging Distances with Dialogue
This spring, Xiamen on the southeast coast of the Chinese mainland hosted the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting, marking the first in-person gathering since 2021. Delegates from 11 Pacific Island nations joined their counterparts from the Chinese mainland to strengthen a partnership that now surpasses $6.3 billion in annual trade.
Life-Saving Cooperation
Beyond economics, the meeting spotlighted disaster relief and healthcare collaboration. After Vanuatu's 2024 earthquake, emergency aid showcased rapid response, while hundreds of medical workers from the Chinese mainland have treated over 250,000 patients across the Pacific region, bolstering public health networks.
Planning Sustainability and Growth
Ministers agreed to broaden cooperation in agriculture for food security, launch joint education and training programs, and enhance disaster preparedness. They also outlined plans for sustainable tourism and cultural exchange to strengthen people-to-people ties and boost local economies.
Solidarity in a Shifting World
At the meeting's core was a commitment to sovereignty and Global South unity. By turning dialogue into action on climate resilience, development goals, and long-term sustainability, leaders are charting a more inclusive global order that reflects the voices and ambitions of Pacific Island nations and the Chinese mainland alike.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
