BY NED GAGAHE
China and Solomon Islands have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen bilateral ties following talks between China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Solomon Islands Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade Rick Houenipwela in Beijing this week.
During the meeting Foreign Minister Wang congratulated Solomon Islands on the formation of its new government and welcomed its continued commitment to the One-China principle, a statement from the Chinese Embassy in Solomon Islands said yesterday.
Foreign Minister Wang said China’s appreciation of the Solomon Islands Government’s reaffirmation of the One-China policy will further strengthen the political foundation of relations between the two countries and provide greater opportunities to deepen bilateral cooperation.
He said China is prepared to work closely with Solomon Islands by aligning development strategies and advancing high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.
The Chinese Foreign Minister said both countries should expand practical cooperation in key sectors, including green energy, while strengthening people-to-people exchanges in education, health and youth development.
He also called for closer coordination in multilateral affairs to uphold international fairness and justice and to jointly respond to global challenges such as climate change.
The talks were held during Minister Houenipwela’s official visit to China, his first since taking office as Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade.
The meeting forms part of ongoing efforts by both governments to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established following the two countries’ diplomatic relations in 2019.
Minister Houenipwela’s visit has included meetings with senior Chinese officials aimed at advancing development cooperation, infrastructure investment, education, health and other areas of mutual interest.
The visit underscores the continued engagement between Honiara and Beijing as both countries seek to expand cooperation on development and regional issues.
Photo credit: Xinhua/Li Tao
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