Chinese President Xi Jinping and eight leaders and officials from Pacific Island countries met in Papua New Guinea's capital on November 16 and agreed to lift their relations to a more comprehensive strategic partnership that will feature mutual respect and common development.
Xinhua reported that the Chinese President hosted the meeting PNG Prime Minister Peter O'Neill, President Peter Christian of the Federated States of Micronesia, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Malielegaoi of Samoa, Vanuatu Prime Minister Charlot Salwai, Prime Minister Henry Puna of the Cook Islands, Prime Minister Samuela Akilisi Pohiva of Tonga, Niue Premier Toke Talagi and the Fiji government's representative, Defense Minister Ratu Inoke Kubuabola, and delivered a speech.
Xi suggested the development of China's relations with the countries from Pacific Island and stressed out that both parties should seize this opportunity and work together for a better future. He also added that China and Pacific Island countries have been good friends who treat each other with mutual respect and sincerity.
"China maintains that all countries are equal regardless of their sizes, respects the rights of the peoples in Pacific island countries to choose their own development paths, and respects the countries' efforts in united self-improvement and equal participation in international and regional affairs," he said.
Xi also added that China has been very supportive of the island countries in developing an economy. China opened its market to these countries and expanded investment.
Xi noted that the Asia-Pacific region has the fastest growing economy so it would be a win-win situation for all the concerned parties for this partnership.
