China-PICs Roundtable in East China Boosts Rural Revitalization Initiatives

The city of Liaocheng in east China's Shandong Province hosted a landmark roundtable bringing together representatives from China and nine Pacific Island Countries (PICs) to focus on rural revitalization, broadening cooperation, and celebrating international teamwork on climate action. The event, marking both the China (Shandong)-Pacific Island Countries roundtable on rural revitalization and the third anniversary of the China-Pacific Island Countries Climate Action Cooperation Center, saw the official launch of the China-Pacific Island Countries International Friendship Cities Association.

Over 120 attendees, including government officials, scholars, and business leaders, gathered to discuss strategies for bolstering collaboration between China and the Pacific region. The participants highlighted the significant achievements of existing partnerships and stressed the importance of deepening friendship and exchange—particularly between Liaocheng City, Shandong Province, and the island nations.

Speakers at the roundtable underscored the need to broaden practical cooperation in areas such as sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and economic development. Initiatives were floated to not only continue but expand existing ventures, and to explore new avenues of partnership that would benefit rural communities both in China and across the Pacific Islands.

The event also served as a platform for sharing experiences and innovative solutions in rural revitalization. Participants identified the potential for joint research projects, knowledge exchange programs, and people-to-people ties to advance shared goals. The announcement of new cooperative frameworks and the emphasis on sustainable practices were met with optimism from all sides.

Organizers expressed hope that the outcomes of the roundtable would serve as a catalyst for long-term, mutually beneficial relationships, propelling efforts towards sustainable development and climate action. The strengthened bond between China and the Pacific Island Countries is expected to deliver tangible benefits for rural populations, setting a positive example of international collaboration in the face of global challenges.