Prime Minister Charlot Salwai was among the leaders of the Pacific Island Countries who attended the Third China-Pacific island Countries Economic Development and Cooperation Forum in Apia, Samoa this week.
The forum which took place from 20 to 21 October gathered together leaders, Ministers and officials from the People’s Republic of China, the Cook Islands, the Republic of Fiji, the Republic of Kiribati, the Federated States of Micronesia, Niue, the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, the Independent State of Samoa, the Solomon Islands, the Kingdom of Tonga and the Republic of Vanuatu, as well as observers from the Commonwealth of Australia and New Zealand.
The opening day of the Forum began with bilateral meetings between Pacific Leaders and Vice Premier, HE Mr HU Chunhua, of the Government of the People’s Republic of China. During the high level bilateral talks Prime Minister Salwai acknowledged the continued friendship and assistance of the Government of the People’s Republic of China to Vanuatu and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with China in promoting development objectives of Vanuatu through mutual cooperation arrangements.
Vanuatu attaches growing significance in Sino-Vanuatu relations, which have spanned 37 years, during which significant strides have been achieved in the development of overall relations. Over the years Vanuatu has enjoyed a vibrant and open relationship with China based on mutual understanding, friendship and genuine collaboration. Despite many development challenges Vanuatu is facing the China-Vanuatu strategic partnership and relationships have provided a strong basis for both countries to further promote enhanced opportunities for increased development cooperation for the benefit of the respective citizens, said Prime Minister Salwai.
Vanuatu reaffirmed its enduring commitment to work with the Chinese government to jointly advance the comprehensive strategic partnership featuring mutual respect and common development that will deliver tangible benefit to the people.
Prime Minister Salwai emphasized Vanuatu strong position and commitment to the One-China Policy as a major cornerstone in Sino-Vanuatu’s relations.
This unwavering position stems from a genuine desire for cooperation, between two countries and peoples, the extension of goodwill, friendship and a common understanding; and on the basis of mutual respect and in accordance with principles of peaceful co-existence.