China and Pacific Island nations strengthen trade ties

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced a broad consensus with Pacific Island Countries (PICs) following the third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting on Wednesday. The meeting was held in person in China for the first time since the dialogue mechanism was established in 2021. 

Attended by representatives from multiple Pacific Island nations, the meeting resulted in a five-point consensus. Both sides pledged to continue to promote synergy between high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, with a focus on infrastructure, trade, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and aviation.

China is committed to facilitating market access for Pacific Island exports, allowing more high-quality products to enter the Chinese market. The two sides also agreed to explore additional direct flight routes to boost tourism and business connectivity.

Recognizing the severe climate threats faced by Pacific Island nations, China vowed to strengthen cooperation under the Paris Agreement, emphasizing the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. China urged developed countries to fulfill their commitments on climate financing and technology transfer while pledging to support PICs in climate adaptation through South-South cooperation. 

China and PICs agreed to prioritize disaster preparedness, emergency supplies reserve and poverty alleviation. China plans to implement 200 "small yet impactful" livelihood projects in PICs this year.