Climate cooperation drives regional economic development between China, Pacific Island countries

Fiji has long struggled with livestock forage shortages during the dry season, relying heavily on imports for its fungi products. However, the introduction of Juncao technology by China – as part of its free assistance package in 2014 – has transformed the agricultural landscape of this island nation, paving the way for a more sustainable and self-sufficient future.

Over the past decade, Juncao has not only fostered a thriving low-cost mushroom cultivation industry but has also provided essential cattle feed and mitigated soil erosion. "Juncao has become a magic grass, helping the local population escape poverty and improve their lives," said Joseph Veramu, dean of the Institute of Asian Studies at the University of the South Pacific, in an interview with CGTN.

Developed by Chinese scientists after decades of research, this hybrid grass technology enables local farmers to grow various nutritious mushrooms from dried, chopped grasses rather than relying on trees or wood. This innovation has empowered many to launch small businesses, fostering entrepreneurship within local communities.

Training is a crucial aspect of the Juncao initiative. Experts from Fiji's Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, in collaboration with relevant organizations from China, have educated over 2,400 locals in planting techniques since the introduction of the technology. So far, more than 2,000 hectares of Juncao grass have been cultivated in Fiji, transforming the agricultural practices of the region.

In addition to its contributions to the agricultural sector, China plays a significant role in supporting Fiji and the Pacific Islands in climate change mitigation, poverty alleviation and infrastructure development. Initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and connectivity are critical for enabling Pacific countries to adapt effectively to climate challenges, Veramu noted.

"We are family together with other nations in the Pacific Islands and we have seen significant changes, especially over the recent years, with regards to, especially, rising sea levels and changes in the climate," said Lawrence Hayward, premier of Isabel Province in the Solomon Islands, in an interview with CGTN. He expressed his hopes to collaborate with institutions, like scientific institutions in China, to better understand the impact of climate change.

"I come from a village in Solomon Islands where, around January, when we get high tides, you can actually paddle through areas that used to be solid land," said Hayward.

In Isabel Province, several islands have disappeared, forcing some villages to relocate to higher ground. Relocation requires significant effort and resources, particularly when moving people, Hayward added.

Climate change has already started impacting the region, with rising temperatures of 2-3 degrees Celsius affecting crops such as tropical fruits and root vegetables, including taro. This rise in temperature leads to lower harvest yields, making it increasingly difficult to grow crops for both local consumption and export markets, according to Veramu.

Recognizing the importance of collaboration, Shandong Province in China has signed a memorandum of understanding with Pacific Island countries to facilitate the exchange of scholars and experts. This initiative aims to bolster agricultural production and promote collaboration among key stakeholders, helping Fiji connect to the vast Chinese market, as stated by Vatimi Rayalu, Fiji's minister of agriculture.

"Regardless you are big or small, we are a community to live on," Hayward concluded.

Reconstructing diplomatic ties through education platforms

On August 30, 2023, during a day-long conference at the University of the South Pacific under the theme of "Sustainable Development for Small Island States," scholars from Shandong Province and the Pacific exchanged ideas on cooperation in marine sciences, education, development and cultural exchange.

"We are restrategizing our diplomatic relations through education platforms disrupted by the pandemic," said Fiji's Education Minister Aseri Radrodro.

In the educational exchanges between Liaocheng University and Pacific Island nations, 13 students were from the Pacific, specifically from Fiji, Kiribati, and the Solomon Islands.

"Exchange programs between Liaocheng University and Pacific higher education institutions promote deeper cultural understanding and support Pacific and Chinese solutions to tackling climate change," said Veramu.

These international students are gaining firsthand experience of China's progress in addressing climate change, fostering collaboration between China and Pacific Island nations in climate action and green, high-quality development. 

"This exchange not only enhances the Pacific Islands' capacity to address climate change and adapt proactively, but also actively contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It enables Shandong to play a more significant role in Pacific Island climate governance,”said Chen Yongjin, vice minister of the Talent Training Department at the China-Pacific Island Countries Cooperation Center on Climate Change.

Climate cooperation and trade drive sister city partnerships

Climate cooperation and growing trade exchanges are strengthening ties between China and Pacific Island nations, with Shandong Province playing a leading role. Liaocheng University's Pacific Island Countries Research Center, established in 2012, focuses on academic research that supports national strategies and fosters mutual understanding and friendship between China and these island nations.

According to the government of Shandong Province, Shandong's trade with Pacific Island countries surged by 34.5 percent from January to August this year. The province has also formed 13 sister city partnerships with nations like Tonga, Kiribati, Vanuatu and Fiji. Liaocheng established ties with Sigatoka, Fiji making it the Chinese city with the most sister city relationships in the Pacific.

Xinfat Group, a Shandong-based company, has played a crucial role in these exchanges. Since 2007, the company has been conducting bauxite exploration on Fiji's Vanua Levu. In addition to its economic contributions, Xinfat has significantly benefited the local community by creating over 200 jobs, training workers in heavy machinery operation and supporting local projects such as livestock farming, afforestation and infrastructure repairs.