China and Samoa Discuss Climate Change and Development

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa in Beijing on Tuesday. During their meeting, Xi emphasized China's commitment to prioritizing climate change action in its cooperation with Pacific Island countries.

Xi stated that China will collaborate with Pacific Island nations to fully implement the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement. He stressed the importance of upholding fairness, justice, and the common interests of the Global South, and building a community with a shared future for mankind.

Xi acknowledged Samoa's early diplomatic ties with China and highlighted the two countries' long-standing friendship and mutual respect. He reaffirmed China's support for Samoa's sovereignty and independence, and its pursuit of a development path aligned with its national conditions.

Xi pledged continued assistance to Samoa's economic and social development, exploring potential in areas like economy, trade, investment, agriculture, and fisheries. He emphasized that China's assistance to Pacific Island countries comes without political strings attached, and its policy towards the region is open and inclusive, not targeting any third party or engaging in geopolitical competition.

Mata'afa expressed Samoa's desire to learn from China's experience in achieving modernization, particularly in poverty reduction and green development. She thanked China for its long-standing support and reaffirmed Samoa's commitment to the one-China principle. Additionally, she expressed support for the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi.

Mata'afa views China as an important strategic partner and looks forward to further advancing bilateral relations, especially in light of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties next year.