China and Micronesia Commit to Strengthening Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Regional Stability

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Lorin S. Robert, Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), on Thursday in Xiamen, southeast China, as part of efforts to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and FSM. The talks took place on the sidelines of the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting, which Robert attended along with delegates from across the Pacific region.

During the meeting, Wang Yi emphasized the growing momentum in relations between China and Pacific Island countries, pointing to a jointly issued statement from the foreign ministers’ forum that he described as injecting “fresh momentum” into regional cooperation. The Chinese foreign minister highlighted the steady progress in China-FSM relations since diplomatic ties were first established, noting that these advances have brought "tangible benefits" to the people of Micronesia, particularly in areas of development and infrastructure.

Wang expressed appreciation for the recent resolution passed by the FSM Congress reaffirming its commitment to the one-China principle. He voiced confidence that FSM would continue to "firmly support China’s just position" regarding Taiwan, an issue that remains a cornerstone of China's foreign policy.

A significant milestone in bilateral relations cited during the talks was the handover of the China-assisted FSM National Convention Center. This state-of-the-art facility is seen as a major symbol of deepening partnership and ongoing Belt and Road cooperation between the two countries. Wang said that China stands prepared to expand collaboration, proposing new joint initiatives in infrastructure development, climate change response, and marine scientific research. He further called for deeper exchanges in fields such as education, youth engagement, and local governance to advance the comprehensive strategic partnership.

In response, Lorin S. Robert congratulated China on successfully hosting the regional foreign ministers’ meeting and praised the “fruitful and respectful cooperation” that has defined China-FSM ties over the years. He emphasized that China’s support continues to play a vital role in Micronesia’s national development, underscoring the significance of the new convention center as a testament to the enduring partnership.

Robert reiterated his government's firm adherence to the one-China principle, unequivocally stating that "Taiwan is an inalienable part of China". He lauded China not only as a close bilateral partner but also as a leader in championing sustainable development and fairness for the Global South on the global stage.

Concluding the discussions, the Micronesian foreign affairs chief affirmed FSM's commitment to further strengthening its comprehensive strategic partnership with China, signaling both countries’ intention to broaden cooperation and elevate their diplomatic ties to new heights.