China reaffirms friendship, co-op with Pacific island countries

Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) meets with Samoan Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi in Nadi, Fiji, Nov. 22, 2014.[Photo/Xinhua]

 While meeting with Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi, prime minister of the Independent State of Samoa, Xi said that China establishes strategic partnership featuring mutual respect and common development with the Pacific island countries, which also gives a clear direction for China-Samoa relations.

China appreciates Samoa's firm position on the One China policy, Xi said.

Samoa boasts rich resources in agriculture, fishery and tourism, and China possesses advantages in capital, technology and market, therefore, the two sides should fully tap into their potentials for cooperation, he said.

China is willing to help Samoa develop clean energy and tackle climate change, he added.

Tuilaepa said that the Samoa-China relationship has made steady progress on the basis of mutual trust and respect.

Samoa hopes China will continue to support its nation-building and is willing to actively participate in the economic development and cooperation forum between China and the Pacific island countries, he said.