95 years since founding of The People’s Liberation Army celebrated
China-Fiji relations has developed tremendously, grown vigorously and achieved fruitful results, says Ambassador Qian Bo.
Fiji has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment towards the One-China policy. While highlighting Fiji’s stand, Acting Minister for Defence, National Security and Policing, Jone Usamate said Fiji also commended China’s foreign policy, particularly on the Belt and Road initiative.
The One-China policy refers to a United States policy of strategic ambiguity regarding Taiwan.
It “acknowledges that all Chinese on either side of the Taiwan Strait maintain there is but one China and that Taiwan is a part of China” and “does not challenge that position.”
Mr Usamate made the comments at the 95th Anniversary celebration of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) at the Yue Lai Hotel in Suva on Monday night.
He said the friendly relations between the two sovereign States was a reflection of the existence of mutual respect for sovereignty and cooperation in its engagements.
“I would like to acknowledge the PLA’s continued engagement with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces,” he said.
“The training exchanges and monetary assistance through gratis protocols signed between the two parties, has allowed us to procure specialised equipment and utilise the millions of dollars provided under this agreement in other areas identified by our Defence force.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the People’s Republic of China has been supporting Fiji throughout the years and we have learnt that we can rely on China in our times of need, and we are always assured of your country’s commitment to our needs.
“This commitment is not only to
Fiji, but it has been a diplomatic approach throughout the global community especially in assisting developing countries and small island nations in the Pacific.”
Ambassador of China to Fiji, Qian Bo, said the China-Fiji relations had developed tremendously since the establishment of the diplomatic relationships 47 years ago and that friendship had grown vigorously and achieved fruitful results.
“China and Fiji enjoy close highlevel exchanges and political mutual trust further consolidated. China-Fiji trade and economic cooperation has been growing continuously.
People-to-people and cultural exchanges have brought the two peoples closer,” he said.
“China helped Fiji in Tropical Cyclone relief, and the two sides support each other in the fight against COVID-19.
“Two months ago, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi paid a historical full coverage visit to the PICs, which have diplomatic relations with China, and co-chaired the second ChinaPacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting with Honourable Prime Minister Bainimarama in Suva, forging a new consensus for further deepening bilateral relations.
“China will work with PICs including Fiji to synergise the Belt and Road Initiative with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, jointly promoting peace and development, addressing various risks and challenges, and deepening practical cooperation in economic and trade, climate change, maritime, disaster mitigation, epidemic prevention, defense and security,” the ambassador said.
Fiji will celebrate 47 years of friendship with China in November.