Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka wrapped up his China visit with bold visions for collaboration, calling Chinese President Xi Jinping \"one of the world’s great leaders\" during an exclusive sit-down with CGTN. The trip, which included stops in Yunnan, Fujian, and Zhejiang, highlighted China’s strides in poverty reduction and sustainable development—priorities Rabuka wants to echo back home.
A Friendship Turning 50 🎉
2025 marks 50 years of diplomatic ties between Fiji and China, a partnership Rabuka describes as \"equal and friendly.\" Both nations have supported each other on global issues, with Fiji becoming the first Pacific island country to establish relations with Beijing in 1975.
Growth on Fiji’s Terms 🌴
While impressed by China’s progress, Rabuka stressed Fiji will modernize \"at its own relative pace,\" avoiding over-exploitation of resources. A self-proclaimed environmentalist, he pledged to build an \"ocean of peace\" and tackle climate change—a top threat to island nations.
Next-Gen Collaboration 💡
Young professionals and entrepreneurs take note: Rabuka sees tech and green energy as key areas for cross-border teamwork. For scholars and travelers, his visit spotlights Fiji’s balancing act between preserving ecosystems and embracing innovation.
