Global South Spotlight: Pacific partnerships in focus

China and Pacific Island countries are taking their partnership to new heights – and they're doing it face to face in Xiamen. The Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers' Meeting marks a major milestone, bringing leaders from 11 island nations to southeast China for the first in-person meeting since 2021.

From trade growth – now surpassing $6.3 billion – to life-saving cooperation on disaster relief and healthcare, this partnership goes far beyond economics. China has played a key role in supporting climate resilience, development goals and public health across the region. Whether through emergency aid after Vanuatu's 2024 earthquake or sending hundreds of medical workers to treat over a quarter million patients, China's commitment to the Pacific is both immediate and long-term.

Looking ahead, both sides are expanding collaboration across critical areas – from agriculture and education to disaster preparedness, tourism and cultural exchange – with a shared focus on sustainability, sovereignty and Global South solidarity.

Watch how these nations are turning dialogue into action and shaping a more inclusive global order.