On May 28-29, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held bilateral meetings with his counterparts from South Pacific island nations on the sidelines of the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, held in the city of Xiamen in China’s Fujian province.
Meeting with President and Foreign Minister of Kiribati Taneti Maamau on May 28, Wang Yi said that since the resumption of diplomatic relations between China and Kiribati more than five years ago, bilateral relations have developed rapidly, with continuously deepening political mutual trust and fruitful results in exchanges and cooperation across various fields. Facts have proved that the decision made by President Taneti Maamau and the people of Kiribati to resume diplomatic relations with China is on the right side of history and is fully in line with the fundamental and long-term interests of the two peoples.
Wang Yi added that since the resumption of diplomatic relations between China and Kiribati, exchanges and cooperation in such fields as education, health, police affairs, culture, sports, and youth and at sub-national levels have gained thriving development. The Chinese Embassy was the first among foreign diplomatic missions in Kiribati to offer visa services, and Chinese medical teams have effectively addressed local medical service shortages. Under the framework of the Blue Partnership, the two sides can strengthen cooperation in the protection, development and utilisation of marine resources. China fully understands the special difficulties and legitimate concerns of Pacific Island countries (PICs) in addressing the climate change issue. China is willing to unite and cooperate with developing countries, including Kiribati, to jointly urge developed countries to face squarely their historical responsibilities, fulfil their commitments as soon as possible, and increase support for developing countries in terms of funds, technology and capacity building. China will continue to provide assistance to Kiribati in enhancing its capacity to address climate change within the framework of South-South cooperation.
Taneti Maamau thanked China for its strong support for Kiribati’s economic and social development. The resumption of diplomatic relations between Kiribati and China is a historic moment. Over the past five years, Kiribati has firmly pursued the one-China policy, and the practical cooperation between the two countries has yielded fruitful results, significantly improving the livelihood of the Kiribati people.
Meeting with Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Niue Dalton Tagelagi, Wang Yi stated that China upholds equality among all countries regardless of size, which is a tradition, belief, and principle of China’s diplomacy, and also distinguishes it from other major countries. China has always taken pride in this. [Niue’s current population is just 1,821 people.] Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Niue, bilateral relations have made significant progress, and in 2018, a comprehensive strategic partnership featuring mutual respect and common development was established, serving as a model for equality and common development between countries of different sizes. In providing assistance to PICs, China never attaches any political strings, never imposes its will on others, and never makes empty promises. China’s development of friendly and cooperative relations with Niue is open and transparent and is not targeted at any third party. China deeply empathises with the special concerns of small island countries on the climate change issue, and is willing to work with Niue to uphold the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and jointly build a fair and equitable global climate governance system for win-win cooperation.
Dalton Tagelagi said that Niue is ready to seize the development opportunities brought by China to continue strengthening cooperation in infrastructure, marine conservation, people-to-people and cultural exchanges, tourism, telecommunications and other fields, so as to promote each other’s modernisation process.
Meeting with Crown Prince and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Tonga Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, Wang Yi said that since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Tonga 27 years ago, bilateral relations have experienced sustained and rapid development. Whether in responding to natural disasters or in working together to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, China and Tonga have always supported and helped each other in times of difficulty, acting on the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity with concrete actions.
Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala conveyed sincere greetings from King Tupou VI to President Xi Jinping and expressed gratitude for China’s swift assistance from afar when Tonga encountered natural disasters and the challenge of the pandemic.
Meeting with Minister for Foreign Affairs and Immigration of the Cook Islands Tingika Elikana, Wang Yi stated that in February this year, Prime Minister Mark Brown attended upon invitation the Ninth Asian Winter Games in China, and Premier Li Qiang held a bilateral meeting with him, reaching important common understandings. China has always valued its relations with the Cook Islands and supported the Cook Islands in safeguarding its national sovereignty, independently choosing a development path suited to its national conditions, accelerating its development and revitalisation, and playing its due role in international and regional affairs. The relationship between China and the Cook Islands is not targeted at any third party and represents mutual assistance among the Global South countries.
Tingika Elikana stated that under the visionary leadership of President Xi Jinping, China has achieved tremendous development accomplishments, which the Cook Islands deeply admires. Prime Minister Mark Brown’s visit to China this year was a complete success. The Cook Islands has always regarded China as an important partner and is grateful for the long-term strong support and assistance provided by China for the development of the Cook Islands.
Meeting with Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Solomon Islands Peter Shanel Agovaka, Wang Yi said that last year, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele paid an official visit to China. The leaders of the two countries agreed to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership featuring mutual respect and common development between China and Solomon Islands and build a community with a shared future between China and Solomon Islands in the new era. Facts have proved that the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Solomon Islands is a correct choice in line with the trend of the times and serves the fundamental and long-term interests of the two peoples.
Wang Yi said that Solomon Islands is a country that upholds principles, values credibility and has backbone. China is ready to work hand in hand with Solomon Islands to uphold multilateralism, the basic norms governing international relations, and international fairness and justice. China appreciates Solomon Islands’ firm commitment to the one-China principle. China will continue to increase support for Solomon Islands’ economic and social development, strengthen trade and cultural ties between the two sides, encourage more enterprises to invest and do business in Solomon Islands, and create more practical outcomes that benefit the people of Solomon Islands. China supports Solomon Islands in hosting the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting this year.
Peter Shanel Agovaka expressed heartfelt thanks to China for providing valuable support for Solomon Islands’ economic and social development. Solomon Islands will stand firmly with China to jointly oppose the unilateralism and protectionism of the United States. Solomon Islands steadfastly abides by the one-China principle, which is standing on the right side of history. Solomon Islands looks forward to strengthening practical cooperation with China in areas such as education, police affairs, medical and health care, and cultural preservation, and advancing Solomon Islands-China cooperation toward a shared future.
Meeting with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Papua New Guinea (PNG) Justin Tkatchenko, on May 29, Wang Yi extended congratulations on the 50th anniversary of PNG’s independence, saying that next year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and PNG. China values PNG’s influence as a major country in the South Pacific region and its role as a “gateway” to Asia. China is ready to work with PNG and other Pacific Island countries to implement the outcomes of this Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and make greater contributions to regional peace and development.
Justin Tkatchenko said that PNG is willing to enhance communication and coordination with China, advance the Belt and Road Initiative projects, and strengthen practical cooperation in such fields as agriculture, education, telecommunications, and energy, as well as at the sub-national level, so as to help PNG achieve sustainable development.
Wang Yi said that China appreciates PNG’s firm commitment to the one-China principle. Xiamen is very close to the Kinmen Island of China’s Taiwan region. Peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is what China hopes for most, and early reunification is what China looks forward to the most. That both sides of the Strait belong to one and the same China is not only a historical fact but also the present reality. Completing the great cause of national reunification is the long-cherished aspiration of the Chinese nation; it is where the arc of history bends and a trend not to be reversed.
Meeting with Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Lorin S. Robert, Wang Yi noted that in April last year, President Xi Jinping and President Wesley W. Simina reached important common understandings on strengthening mutual trust and friendship and deepening mutually beneficial cooperation. China appreciates the resolution adopted by the FSM Congress in support of the one-China principle.
Lorin S. Robert said that China’s support is crucial to the development of the FSM. The National Convention Centre project stands as a symbol of the common progress in bilateral relations. China is not only a cooperation partner, but also a global leader, guiding Global South countries toward sustainable development and the establishment of a just world.
Meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and External Trade of Vanuatu Marc Ati, Wang Yi stated that under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and the leaders of Vanuatu, the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Vanuatu has continued to grow, and cooperation in various fields has yielded tangible results, which has become a model of mutual respect, solidarity and cooperation among developing countries. Since the inauguration of Vanuatu’s new government in February this year, it has continued to pursue a positive and friendly policy toward China, which is highly appreciated by the Chinese side. Friendship with China serves the fundamental interests of Vanuatu and its people, transcending party differences.
Wang Yi added that Pacific Island countries, as independent sovereign states rather than anyone’s “backyard”, have the right to independently choose their cooperation partners and development paths. The South Pacific region should be a stage for international cooperation, not an arena for geopolitical games. China firmly supports Vanuatu’s independence and its efforts to defend its sovereignty, security, and development interests.
Marc Ati said that China is an important development partner for Vanuatu. China’s support has not only helped improve people’s livelihoods in Vanuatu but also strengthened the country’s confidence and resilience in development. Vanuatu stands ready to elevate the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries to a new height and move toward a more prosperous future.
Wang Yi also met with former President and incumbent Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade of Nauru Russ Joseph Kun, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Fiji Lenora Salusalu Qereqeretabua, and Deputy Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum Esala Nayasi.
The following articles were originally published on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
Wang Yi Meets with President and Foreign Minister of Kiribati Taneti Maamau
May 28 (MFA) — On May 28, 2025, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Xiamen with President and Foreign Minister of Kiribati Taneti Maamau, who is in China for the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
Wang Yi first conveyed President Xi Jinping’s sincere greetings and best wishes. Wang Yi said that since the resumption of diplomatic relations between China and Kiribati more than five years ago, bilateral relations have developed rapidly, with continuously deepening political mutual trust and fruitful results in exchanges and cooperation across various fields. Facts have proved that the decision made by President Taneti Maamau and the people of Kiribati to resume diplomatic relations with China is on the right side of history and is fully in line with the fundamental and long-term interests of the two peoples. China always values its relations with Kiribati, and highly appreciates Kiribati’s firm commitment to the one-China principle. China is willing to work with Kiribati to continue advancing bilateral relations and enhancing the well-being of the Kiribati people.
Wang Yi said that since the resumption of diplomatic relations between China and Kiribati, exchanges and cooperation in such fields as education, health, police affairs, culture, sports, and youth and at sub-national levels have gained thriving development. The Chinese Embassy was the first among foreign diplomatic missions in Kiribati to offer visa services, and Chinese medical teams have effectively addressed local medical service shortages. China will continue to encourage more capable and reputable Chinese-funded enterprises to invest and do business in Kiribati. Under the framework of the Blue Partnership, the two sides can strengthen cooperation in the protection, development and utilization of marine resources. China fully understands the special difficulties and legitimate concerns of Pacific Island countries (PICs) in addressing the climate change issue. China is willing to unite and cooperate with developing countries, including Kiribati, to jointly urge developed countries to face squarely their historical responsibilities, fulfill their commitments as soon as possible, and increase support for developing countries in terms of funds, technology and capacity building. China will continue to provide assistance to Kiribati in enhancing its capacity to address climate change within the framework of South-South cooperation.
Taneti Maamau asked Wang Yi to convey his cordial greetings to President Xi Jinping and the Chinese people, and thanked China for its strong support for Kiribati’s economic and social development. The resumption of diplomatic relations between Kiribati and China is a historic moment. Over the past five years, Kiribati has firmly pursued the one-China policy, and the practical cooperation between the two countries has yielded fruitful results, significantly improving the livelihood of the Kiribati people. Kiribati looks forward to further strengthening cooperation with China in areas such as people-to-people and cultural exchanges, medical and health care, infrastructure, sister-city exchanges, marine economy, and climate change, promoting the Kiribati 20-year Vision, and bringing more benefits to the two peoples. Kiribati actively supports China’s initiative to establish the International Organization for Mediation in Hong Kong, which reflects China’s leadership role. The friendly relationship between Kiribati and China is a vivid manifestation of the spirit of “solidarity and partnership” and will surely sail towards a bright future together.
Both sides expect the success of the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Wang Yi said that the current world is fraught with turbulence and instability, posing severe challenges to Global South countries, especially small and medium-sized countries. The convening of the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting is timely and will provide an important opportunity for China and PICs to jointly address risks and challenges and identify key areas of cooperation for the next phase under the new circumstances. The meeting will issue a joint statement, and China will also release a list of measures to implement the consensus reached at the meeting. Taneti Maamau expressed his willingness to play an active role in continuously promoting strong relations and fruitful cooperation between PICs and China.
Wang Yi Meets with Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Niue Dalton Tagelagi
May 28 (MFA) — On May 28, 2025, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Xiamen with Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Niue Dalton Tagelagi, who is in China for the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
Wang Yi appreciated Dalton Tagelagi for valuing the development of relations with China and making a positive contribution to China’s relations with Niue and the overall relations with Pacific Island countries (PICs). Wang Yi stated that China upholds equality among all countries regardless of size, which is a tradition, belief, and principle of China’s diplomacy, and also distinguishes it from other major countries. China has always taken pride in this. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Niue, bilateral relations have made significant progress, and in 2018, a comprehensive strategic partnership featuring mutual respect and common development was established, serving as a model for equality and common development between countries of different sizes.
Wang Yi emphasized that China always follows the principle of fully respecting the PICs’ sovereignty and independence, and their will, cultural traditions and effort to seek strength through unity proposed by President Xi Jinping in developing relations with island nations. In providing assistance to PICs, China never attaches any political strings, never imposes its will on others, and never makes empty promises. China’s development of friendly and cooperative relations with Niue is open and transparent, and is not targeted at any third party. China appreciates Niue’s commitment to the one-China principle and will continue to support Niue in following a development path that suits its national conditions. China is willing to make joint efforts with Niue to promote the continuous development of bilateral relations and bring benefits to the people of Niue.
Wang Yi pointed out that both sides should enhance cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, green development, and climate change. The Chinese side welcomes more young people from Niue to visit and receive training in China and encourages more Chinese citizens to travel to Niue. China deeply empathizes with the special concerns of small island countries on the climate change issue, and is willing to work with Niue to uphold the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and jointly build a fair and equitable global climate governance system for win-win cooperation.
Dalton Tagelagi expressed heartfelt gratitude for China’s selfless assistance in Niue’s independent development and improvement of people’s livelihoods, stating that China’s support is crucial for PICs. Niue cherishes its relations with China and the close friendship between the two peoples, firmly pursues the one-China policy, and supports the three major global initiatives and high-quality Belt and Road cooperation proposed by China. Niue is ready to seize the development opportunities brought by China to continue strengthening cooperation in infrastructure, marine conservation, people-to-people and cultural exchanges, tourism, telecommunications and other fields, so as to promote each other’s modernization process. Niue is willing to continue advancing the development of the South Pacific region and upholding a fair and rules-based global trading system in the spirit of mutual respect.
Wang Yi Meets with Crown Prince and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Tonga Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala
May 28 (MFA) — On May 28, 2025, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Xiamen with Crown Prince and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Tonga Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, who is in China for the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
Wang Yi conveyed President Xi Jinping’s cordial greetings to King Tupou VI. Wang Yi said that since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Tonga 27 years ago, bilateral relations have experienced sustained and rapid development. Whether in responding to natural disasters or in working together to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, China and Tonga have always supported and helped each other in times of difficulty, acting on the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind with concrete actions. China firmly supports Tonga in safeguarding its sovereignty, security and development interests, and supports Tonga in independently choosing its development path and governance model. China highly appreciates Tonga’s firm commitment to the one-China principle, and is willing to work with Tonga to implement the important common understandings reached by the leaders of the two countries, deepen exchanges and cooperation in various fields, continuously bring China-Tonga relations to new heights, and deliver more benefits to the Tongan people.
Wang Yi stated that since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Tonga, friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries have deepened across various fields and at all levels, spanning from central authorities to local governments and encompassing economic, people-to-people and cultural interactions, and the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation has injected continuous momentum into China-Tonga relations. China will be a long-term partner that Tonga can trust and is willing to continue advancing exchanges and cooperation in various fields. China upholds the principle that all countries, big or small, are equal, supports Tonga in participating more in international and regional affairs, and appreciates Tonga’s long-standing support for China’s just position on multilateral occasions. China is ready to work with Global South countries, including Tonga, to jointly oppose unilateralism and protectionism and practice true multilateralism.
Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala conveyed sincere greetings from King Tupou VI to President Xi Jinping, and expressed gratitude for China’s swift assistance from afar when Tonga encountered natural disasters and the challenge of the pandemic. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Tonga and China, the two countries have made significant progress in bilateral relations, which provides strong support for improving the Tongan people’s livelihoods. He said that during the visit to Shandong, he gained an in-depth understanding of Confucianism. Tonga remains firmly committed to the one-China policy and is willing to enhance exchanges of ideas with China, promote practical cooperation in such fields as healthcare and education, and bring more benefits to the two peoples. Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala highly appreciated China’s concrete measures to Pacific Island countries’ efforts in responding to climate change and wished for the success of the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
Wang Yi Meets with Minister for Foreign Affairs and Immigration of the Cook Islands Tingika Elikana
May 28 (MFA) — On May 28, 2025, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Xiamen with Minister for Foreign Affairs and Immigration of the Cook Islands Tingika Elikana, who is in China for the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
Wang Yi stated that in February this year, Prime Minister Mark Brown attended upon invitation the Ninth Asian Winter Games in China, and Premier Li Qiang held a bilateral meeting with him, reaching important common understandings. China has always valued its relations with the Cook Islands, and supported the Cook Islands in safeguarding its national sovereignty, independently choosing a development path suited to its national conditions, accelerating its development and revitalization, and playing its due role in international and regional affairs. The relationship between China and the Cook Islands is not targeted at any third party, and represents mutual assistance among the Global South countries. China appreciates the Cook Islands’ commitment to the one-China principle. Upholding the one-China principle means opposing Taiwan independence and supporting China’s reunification, which is the essence of the one-China principle.
Wang Yi emphasized that China is a trustworthy and reliable partner for the Cook Islands, and is willing to maintain exchanges at all levels with the Cook Islands to enhance mutual understanding, deepen strategic mutual trust, and firmly support each other’s core interests and major concerns. Both sides should leverage the complementary advantages of practical cooperation between the two countries, strengthen cooperation in key areas such as marine resources development and protection, and better assist the Cook Islands in developing its economy and improving people’s livelihoods. China deeply empathizes with the special concerns of small island nations like the Cook Islands on the climate change issue, and is ready to work with the Cook Islands to uphold the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and jointly build a fair and equitable global climate governance system for win-win cooperation. Wang Yi said he looks forward to the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting sending out a message of unity and cooperation.
Tingika Elikana stated that under the visionary leadership of President Xi Jinping, China has achieved tremendous development accomplishments, which the Cook Islands deeply admires. Prime Minister Mark Brown’s visit to China this year was a complete success. The Cook Islands has always regarded China as an important partner and is grateful for the long-term strong support and assistance provided by China for the development of the Cook Islands. The Cook Islands will unwaveringly abide by the one-China principle and is willing to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation with China in various fields and promote the in-depth development of bilateral relations. The timely China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting creates opportunities to deepen bilateral cooperation and strengthen the unity of the island countries, which the Cook Islands firmly supports.
Wang Yi Meets with Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Solomon Islands Peter Shanel Agovaka
May 28 (MFA) — On May 28, 2025, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Xiamen with Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Solomon Islands Peter Shanel Agovaka, who is in China for the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
Wang Yi said that last year, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele paid an official visit to China. The leaders of the two countries agreed to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership featuring mutual respect and common development between China and Solomon Islands, and build a community with a shared future between China and Solomon Islands in the new era. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Solomon Islands more than five years ago, under the strategic guidance of the leaders of the two countries, bilateral relations have achieved all-round development, political mutual trust has been continuously deepened, and practical cooperation has yielded fruitful results. The two sides have always stood together, coordinated with each other and supported each other in international and regional affairs. Facts have proved that the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Solomon Islands is a correct choice in line with the trend of the times and serves the fundamental and long-term interests of the two peoples.
Wang Yi said that Solomon Islands is a country that upholds principles, values credibility and has backbone. China is ready to work hand in hand with Solomon Islands to uphold multilateralism, the basic norms governing international relations, and international fairness and justice. China appreciates Solomon Islands’ firm commitment to the one-China principle. China will continue to increase support for Solomon Islands’ economic and social development, strengthen trade and cultural ties between the two sides, encourage more enterprises to invest and do business in Solomon Islands, and create more practical outcomes that benefit the people of Solomon Islands. China supports Solomon Islands in hosting the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting this year. Wang Yi expressed the hope that the two sides will seize the opportunity, and jointly promote the stable and sustainable development of China-Solomon Islands relations to new heights.
Peter Shanel Agovaka said that since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Solomon Islands and China, bilateral relations have been continuously growing and improving. He expressed heartfelt thanks to China for providing valuable support for Solomon Islands’ economic and social development. Solomon Islands will stand firmly with China to jointly oppose the unilateralism and protectionism of the United States. Solomon Islands steadfastly abides by the one-China principle, which is standing on the right side of history. Solomon Islands resolutely opposes “Taiwan independence” separatist activities and firmly supports the efforts of the Chinese government to achieve national reunification. Peter Shanel Agovaka also expressed gratitude to China for its strong support for Solomon Islands in hosting the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting this year. Solomon Islands looks forward to strengthening practical cooperation with China in areas such as education, police affairs, medical and health care, and cultural preservation, and advancing Solomon Islands-China cooperation toward a shared future.
Wang Yi Meets with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Papua New Guinea Justin Tkatchenko
May 29 (MFA) — On May 29, 2025, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Xiamen with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Papua New Guinea (PNG) Justin Tkatchenko, who is in China for the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
Wang Yi said that the friendship between China and PNG, transcending mountains and seas, has withstood the test of time and become a cherished asset for both peoples. Under the guidance of previous leaders of the two countries, China and PNG have become good friends with mutual trust, good partners for mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, and good brothers supporting each other in international affairs. Wang Yi extended congratulations on the 50th anniversary of PNG’s independence, saying that next year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and PNG. The two sides need to review the successful experience in advancing bilateral relations and jointly chart the development blueprint for the next 50 years.
Wang Yi stressed that the two sides should follow through on the common understandings reached between the leaders of the two countries, start the negotiations on a bilateral free trade agreement as soon as possible, and deepen cooperation in various fields to transform PNG’s development potential into development momentum. Wang Yi welcomed PNG’s participation in the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation.
Wang Yi pointed out that the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting reached new consensus on jointly building a China-Pacific Island Countries community with a shared future. China values PNG’s influence as a major country in the South Pacific region and its role as a “gateway” to Asia. China is ready to work with PNG and other Pacific Island countries to implement the outcomes of this Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and make greater contributions to regional peace and development.
Justin Tkatchenko said that relations with China are of vital importance to PNG. The PNG government remains firmly committed to the one-China policy and supports China in safeguarding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity. PNG is willing to enhance communication and coordination with China, advance the Belt and Road Initiative projects, and strengthen practical cooperation in such fields as agriculture, education, telecommunications, and energy, as well as at the sub-national level, so as to help PNG achieve sustainable development.
Wang Yi said that China appreciates PNG’s firm commitment to the one-China principle. Xiamen is very close to the Kinmen Island of China’s Taiwan region. Peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is what China hopes for most, and early reunification is what China looks forward to the most. That both sides of the Strait belong to one and the same China is not only a historical fact but also the present reality. Completing the great cause of national reunification is the long-cherished aspiration of the Chinese nation; it is where the arc of history bends and a trend not to be reversed. “Taiwan independence” separatist activities violate China’s Constitution, run counter to the purposes of the United Nations Charter, and go against the prevailing international consensus on the one-China principle. Such moves will inevitably be opposed by all countries.
On the sidelines of the Meeting, Wang Yi also met with former President and incumbent Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade of Nauru Russ Joseph Kun, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Fiji Lenora Salusalu Qereqeretabua, and Deputy Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum Esala Nayasi.
Wang Yi Meets with Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Federated States of Micronesia Lorin S. Robert
May 29 (MFA) — On May 29, 2025, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Xiamen with Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Lorin S. Robert, who is in China for the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
Wang Yi said that thanks to the joint efforts of the FSM and all other parties, the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting concluded successfully. The joint statement issued at the meeting has injected new momentum into the development of China’s relations with the Pacific Island countries.
Wang Yi pointed out that since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the FSM, bilateral cooperation has continuously advanced, bringing tangible benefits to the FSM people. In April last year, President Xi Jinping and President Wesley W. Simina reached important common understandings on strengthening mutual trust and friendship, and deepening mutually beneficial cooperation. China appreciates the resolution adopted by the FSM Congress in support of the one-China principle, and believes that the FSM will continue to firmly support China’s just position on the Taiwan question. China is willing to work with the FSM to speed up Belt and Road cooperation. The China-aided project of the FSM National Convention Center was smoothly handed over, with the exhibition of “China Orchid” being a highlight of the handover ceremony, becoming a memorable story in bilateral relations. China is ready to further expand cooperation with the FSM in key areas such as infrastructure, climate change response, and marine scientific research, deepen exchanges in education, youth, and at the sub-national level, and continuously push forward the China-FSM comprehensive strategic partnership.
Lorin S. Robert extended congratulations on the complete success of the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, and said that since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the FSM and China, the two countries have treated each other with mutual respect and equality, and engaged in productive practical cooperation. China’s support is crucial to the development of the FSM. The National Convention Center project stands as a symbol of the common progress in bilateral relations. The FSM government firmly abides by the one-China principle, recognizing that Taiwan is part of China. China is not only a cooperation partner, but also a global leader, guiding Global South countries toward sustainable development and the establishment of a just world. The FSM is willing to continue developing the comprehensive strategic partnership with China.
Wang Yi Meets with Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and External Trade of Vanuatu Marc Ati
May 29 (MFA) — On May 29, 2025, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Xiamen with Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and External Trade of Vanuatu Marc Ati, who is in China for the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
Wang Yi stated that under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and the leaders of Vanuatu, the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Vanuatu has continued to grow, and cooperation in various fields has yielded tangible results, which has become a model of mutual respect, solidarity and cooperation among developing countries. Since the inauguration of Vanuatu’s new government in February this year, it has continued to pursue a positive and friendly policy toward China, which is highly appreciated by the Chinese side. Friendship with China serves the fundamental interests of Vanuatu and its people, transcending party differences and becoming broad consensus.
Wang Yi expressed that China-Vanuatu relations are now at their best in history. Both sides should seize the momentum, strengthen exchanges at all levels, and expand practical cooperation. China welcomes Vanuatu’s efforts to increase exports of quality products to China, will continue to encourage Chinese enterprises to invest and do business in Vanuatu, and looks forward to the early launch of negotiations on the bilateral free trade agreement. China welcomes Vanuatu’s participation in the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation.
Wang Yi said that Pacific Island countries, as independent sovereign states rather than anyone’s “backyard”, have the right to independently choose their cooperation partners and development paths. The South Pacific region should be a stage for international cooperation, not an arena for geopolitical games. China firmly supports Vanuatu’s independence and its efforts to defend its sovereignty, security, and development interests.
Marc Ati said that China is an important development partner for Vanuatu. China’s support has not only helped improve people’s livelihoods in Vanuatu, but also strengthened the country’s confidence and resilience in development. The government of Vanuatu remains firmly committed to the one-China policy and is willing to seek greater synergy of development strategies with China, accelerate negotiations on the bilateral free trade agreement, and advance cooperation in education, infrastructure, health, police affairs and other aspects. Vanuatu stands ready to elevate the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries to a new height and move toward a more prosperous future.
