Fiji Sun

Minister Seruiratu Acknowledg­es Xi’s Belt and Road Initiative

- LUSIANA TUIMAISALA SUVA

Fiji and China have enjoyed a very close and cordial relation since we establishe­d diplomatic relations in 1975. Minister for Defence and National Security, Inia Seruiratu made this comment during the celebratio­n of the 2019 Spring Festival and Chinese Lunar New Year, at Civic Center on Friday. “Embedded on our adherence to the One China Policy, our relation has been elevated to a comprehens­ive strategic partnershi­p of mutual respect and common developmen­t.

“This has fostered a renewed commitment between our countries, to continuous­ly expand and strengthen our relations in a wide array of sectors.”

Mr Seruiratu said: “Our ChineseFij­ian community have worked alongside with their fellow Fijians to drive the developmen­t and progress across our country.

“Chinese contributi­on to the Fiji an society not only add to the rich tapestry of culture and diversity we enjoy in Fiji.

“It has also contribute­d significan­tly to the developmen­t of Fiji and specifical­ly to improve the lives of every Fijian. Mr Seruiratu commended and acknowledg­edthe visionary leadership of Chinese President Xi Jingping.

“This is in his pursuit of there alisa ti on of a connected global community through policies such as the Belt and Road Initiative.

“Being a major developmen­t partner and sincere friend of Fiji, China actively promotes mutually beneficial corperatio­n with Fiji under the framework of BRI and has provided strong and firm support to Fiji’s economic and social developmen­t.

“This including its effort to confront climate change challenge and to realise its sustainabl­e developmen­t goals.”

Chinese Ambassador to Fiji, Qian Bo said China Gross Domestic Product (GDP) exceeded 90 trillion Yuan (FJ$28 tn) for the first time.

An increase of 6.6 per cent yearon-year, achieving the expected growth target of about 6.5 per cent.

 ?? Photo: DEPTFO News ?? From left: Director and owner of Yue Lai Hotel, FuGang Zhao, Mininister for Infrastruc­ture and Transport and Minsiter for Defence and National Security Inia Seruiratu.
Photo: DEPTFO News From left: Director and owner of Yue Lai Hotel, FuGang Zhao, Mininister for Infrastruc­ture and Transport and Minsiter for Defence and National Security Inia Seruiratu.

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