Wang Yi on consensus reached at second China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting

On 30 May 2022 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi co-chaired the second China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting with Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Frank Bainimarama of Fiji in Suva. At a joint press availability after the meeting, State Councilor Wang said that the success of the meeting can be summarized in a five-point consensus as follows.

First, deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership. China is not a newcomer, but rather an old friend with Pacific Island Countries sharing long-time bonds. The fast progress in China-Pacific Island Countries relations does not come out of thin air, but materializes in due course with the right conditions. China and Pacific Island Countries will continue to support and help each other, firmly uphold each other's core interests and major concerns, and keep consolidating and expanding the comprehensive strategic partnership. 

Second, safeguarding national sovereignty, independence and dignity. All countries are equals regardless of their sizes. Pacific Island Countries have the right to peace and development, the people here have the freedom to pursue a better life, and the future of Pacific Island Countries should be grasped in their own hands. It is important to respect the sovereignty of all countries, abide by the principle of non-interference, and jointly uphold the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, particular small and medium-sized countries. 

Third, pursuing common development and prosperity. Development is a shared mission of China and Pacific Island Countries. We are committed to high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, jointly addressing such challenges as COVID-19 and economic recovery, and protecting and improving livelihoods. China will continue to provide assistance to Pacific Island Countries with no political strings attached to enhance the capability of Pacific Island Countries for self-driven development. 

Fourth, advocating true multilateralism. China and Pacific Island Countries all abide by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter earnestly, advocate multilateralism, and call for efforts to implement the Paris Agreement faster and adopt practical measures to support the climate response of Pacific Island Countries. China commends Pacific Island Countries' support for the Global Development Initiative, which will contribute to the realization of the 2030 SDGs.

Fifth, promoting people-to-people exchanges. China's friendship and exchanges with Pacific Island Countries have a long history. China stands ready to further exchanges and cooperation with Pacific Island Countries in such areas as education, culture, youth, sports and media, provide Pacific Island Countries with Chinese government scholarships and various training opportunities, and encourage closer sub-national exchanges and cooperation.

State Councilor Wang said that China will keep in close communication with all parties, make good use of the mechanism of China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting, and jointly build an even closer China-Pacific Island Countries community with a shared future.