Suva (Fiji), May 30 (Al Jazeera): Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi and counterparts in 10 Pacific Island nations failed to reach consensus at talks on a sweeping security and trade deal amid concerns the proposal could “threaten regional stability”.
Following Monday’s virtual talks, Wang, who was in Fiji, sought to reassure the Pacific nations about China’s aims in the region, saying Beijing has also long championed developing nations in Asia, Africa and the Caribbean.
“Don’t be too anxious and don’t be too nervous,” he said. “Because the common development and prosperity of China and all the other developing countries would only mean great harmony, greater justice and greater progress of the whole world.”
The top diplomat’s visit to Fiji is part of a diplomatic tour aimed at radically increasing China’s involvement in the security, economy and politics of the South Pacific.
A draft communique and five-year action plan that China sent to the invited nations ahead of the meeting showed it was seeking to train local police, become involved in cybersecurity, expand political ties, conduct sensitive marine mapping and gain greater access to natural resources on land and in the water.
China, Pacific islands fail to reach consensus on security pact
FE Team | Published: May 30, 2022 21:39:00
China, Pacific islands fail to reach consensus on security pact
Share if you like