CAPTION: Minister Kubuabola with his China counterpart in Beijing.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola yesterday met his Chinese counterpart, H.E Mr Yang Jiechi in Beijing, China.
The meeting was held to discuss a myriad of issues concerning the two countries and deliberate on ongoing developments that form part of the Fiji-China bilateral relations.
The visit by Minister Kubuabola was critical as it presented an opportunity for the Fijian Government to thank the current Government of the People’s Republic for its unwavering support towards Fiji over the years. Minister Kubuabola also took the time to discuss about the developments in Fiji regarding the implementation of its roadmap towards the 2014 democratic elections. In doing so, he acknowledged with appreciation the support and assistance provided by China.
“The bilateral relations between our two countries have really grown from strength to strength and this is owing to the commitment by our two Governments to forge stronger partnerships in the various areas of our common interests,” Minister Kubuabola said.
“Fiji remains steadfast in upholding the One China Policy and is fully committed to continue to work closely together with the Government of China to effectively address issues of mutual interests between our countries,” he added.
As a step towards strengthening bilateral relations, both Ministers agreed to engage more through High-Level visits by both Governments in 2013.
Minister Kubuabola also took advantage of the opportunity to discuss about Fiji’s chairmanship of the G77 especially the upcoming High-Level meeting of the G77 Eminent Personalities that will take place in Fiji from 7-9 May 2013. Minister Kubuabola also conveyed the Fijian Government’s invitation to the Government of China to participate at the meeting.
“We acknowledge the important role that China plays among the international community and its commitment towards South-South Cooperation, therefore it is imperative that a Chinese delegation is part of this G77 High-Level meeting and we look forward to their participation”, he added.
The meeting also discussed the Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF) that Fiji will host in August this year. China is supportive of this meeting and looks forward to further collaboration with the Fijian Government on this important initiative.
Minister Kubuabola also met with China’s Special Envoy to the Pacific Islands Forum, H.E Stanley Li to discuss current developments in the Pacific region.
Minister Kubuabola is currently in China for a two-day visit. He will be in Guangzhou city today to hold meetings with Chinese investors who have expressed interests in establishing invest projects in Fiji.
-Press Release-