Xi Jinping: Peaceful development is the only option

World
Europe

01:57

‍The Asia-Pacific region has become the engine of the global economy with the highest growth rate and the greatest potential.

To respond to the call of the times, countries in the region firmly believe that the only viable choice is to meet challenges together in the spirit of peaceful development and through win-win cooperation.

Chairing the group meeting with leaders of Pacific island countries, Chinese President Xi Jinping made the remarks while delivering a keynote speech in Port Moresby, capital of Papua New Guinea (PNG) on Friday.

Xi put forward proposals for the development of relations between China and Pacific island countries under the new circumstances, stressing that both sides should seize opportunities and create a better future.

China and the Pacific island countries are always good friends with mutual respect, good partners of mutual benefit, good neighbors who can learn from each other, Xi said.

China maintains that all countries, big and small, are equal, Xi stressed, saying that China respects the right of the people of Pacific island countries to independently choose their own development path.

Leaders of the Pacific island countries appreciated Xi for his initiative and presiding over the meeting.

They said China is an important partner to help improve living standards and meet global challenges.

The Pacific island countries cherish the close relationship with China and adhere to the one-China policy.

Their countries are willing to actively participate in the Belt and Road construction, the leaders said.

During the meeting, Xi met with leaders from PNG, Federated States of Micronesia, Samoa, Vanuatu, the Cook Islands, Tonga, Niue and Fiji, which have established diplomatic relations with China.