Premier Li Keqiang met Fijian Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama at the Great Hall of the People on July 16 and hailed relations between the two countries.

The Premier said China and Fiji are strategic cooperation partners that respect each other and are developing together. In the four decades since the establishment of bilateral ties, the two nations have witnessed frequent exchanges and fruitful exchanges in areas including trade, culture, defense and legal enforcement.

He said President Xi Jinping’s successful visit to Fiji last year took the bilateral relationship to new heights. China expects to deepen mutual trust with Fiji and strengthen dialogue, communication and cooperation in all fields to push forward development of the relationship, he added.

Premier Li said China expects to beef up cooperation with Fiji in fields including agriculture, communication, infrastructure, new energy, tourism and environment protection. The Chinese government supports Chinese enterprises’ investment in industries such as ecological agriculture in Fiji and Fiji is welcome to explore the market for high-quality marine products in China.

The Premier said he expects the joint feasibility studies on a bilateral free trade agreement to make progress to raise the level of trade. China will continue to provide affordable assistance to Fiji’s economic and social development.

He also stressed the necessity to deepen cultural and local exchanges to build friendship and push forward cooperation. China supports Fiji in playing a constructive role in regional cooperation of Pacific island nations. Beijing will also strengthen multilateral cooperation with Fiji and keep close communication and coordination on issues including climate change and UN reform to protect mutual interests.

Bainimarama said China is an important development partner of Fiji and he expects to use the visit to deepen the traditional friendship between the two nations and strengthen cooperation in areas including trade, fisheries and aviation.

He appreciated China’s long-term assistance to Fiji and hopes China supports Fiji’s national development strategy. Fiji appreciates China’s important role in global efforts to fight climate change and expects to strengthen cooperation with China on international and regional affairs, he added.

The Premier held a welcome ceremony for the guest before their meeting. After the meeting they witnessed a signing ceremony of cooperation documents on trade, technology and culture.