Fiji and China should continue to support each other on issues concerning each other’s core interests and major concerns, says Chinese ambassador to Fiji Zhou Jian.
Speaking at a press briefing in Suva on Tuesday, he stated China will strongly uphold the fundamental international norm of non-interference in other countries’ internal affairs and will firmly support Fiji in protecting its sovereignty, security, and development interests.
“China and Fiji should uphold mutual respect and equal treatment,” Mr Zhou said.
“This is also an important experience that has led to the remarkable development of our bilateral relations over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Fiji.”
He said China consistently upheld the principle that all countries, regardless of size, were equal.
“In its engagement with Pacific island countries, China steadfastly adheres to the ‘four full respects’ principle, that is, China fully respects the sovereignty and independence of PICs, fully respects their will, fully respects their cultural traditions and fully respects their effort to seek strength through unity.”
Mr Zhou said whenever Fiji faced isolation and sanctions, China consistently respected its sovereignty and stood firmly with Fiji during its most challenging times.
“China and Fiji should maintain solidarity in challenging times and uphold true multilateralism.
“The essence of multilateralism is that international affairs are handled through consultation.
“The Pacific Ocean is large enough to accommodate win-win cooperation among all countries.
“Therefore, China and Fiji should advocate for openness and inclusiveness.”
He said the international community should support PICs’ independent choice of development cooperation partners.
