Wang Yi Announces Key Agreements at 3rd China-PICs Foreign Ministers' Meeting
China and Pacific Islands nations forge a five-pronged consensus at key foreign ministers' meeting, signaling deeper regional cooperation.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced on Wednesday that China and the Pacific Island Countries (PICs) have reached a significant five-pronged consensus following the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Xiamen, Fujian Province. The event, co-hosted with Kiribati's President and Foreign Minister Taneti Maamau, served as an important platform for advancing bilateral cooperation and addressing pressing international and regional issues.
At a press briefing after the meeting, Wang Yi outlined the areas of agreement, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and equality. He stated that China has always upheld the principle that all countries, regardless of size, are equals in the international arena. The reaffirmation of the one-China principle by the Pacific Island nations and their support for China's sovereignty and territorial integrity were highlighted as foundations for deeper mutual trust.
The consensus also stressed a commitment to promoting common development. Both parties agreed to strengthen synergy between China's Belt and Road Initiative and the “2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.” Wang Yi pledged that China would facilitate greater market access for high-quality products from Pacific Island countries, providing them with expanded opportunities to benefit from the vast Chinese market.
Upholding fairness and justice was another key pillar of the consensus. With the 80th anniversary of the United Nations on the horizon, Wang emphasized the shared intention of both sides to endorse multilateralism and work together to protect the interests of developing countries on the global stage.
The ministers also agreed on the value of openness and inclusivity, calling for greater respect for Pacific Island nations' autonomy in selecting development partners. Wang Yi stressed the importance of prioritizing urgent issues such as climate change, economic growth, and livelihood improvements when shaping international relationships with Pacific Island countries.
Moreover, the consensus includes a commitment to mutual learning and civilizational exchanges. Recognizing the rich heritage of Chinese civilization and the unique maritime cultures of the Pacific Islands, both sides vowed to deepen educational, cultural, and media exchanges. Wang noted that these efforts would advance the Global Civilization Initiative and foster stronger people-to-people ties, contributing to global civilizational progress.
This five-point agreement marks a notable step forward in China-Pacific Island Countries relations, reflecting a shared vision for cooperative development, respect for diversity, and joint action on global challenges.
