Government of the Republic of Fiji
Government of the Republic of Fiji
10/25/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/24/2025 20:11
PM RABUKA COMMENDS CHINESE COMMUNITY’S COURAGE,...
"The story of the Chinese in Fiji is one of courage, perseverance, and partnership."
This was the sentiment shared by the Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka, at the celebration marking the 170 years of Chinese Settlement in Fiji and the 50th Anniversary of China-Fiji Diplomatic Relations in Suva today (25:10:2025).
Hon. Rabuka stated that the celebration reflected the rich diversity within the Chinese community in Fiji, as well as the shared pride and unity that bind them in celebrating their enduring heritage and contribution to our nation.
"Over the years, new generations of Chinese have arrived -men and women from many professions and sectors - all contributing to the life and progress of our nation," Hon. Rabuka stated.
"The courage of those first settlers, who left behind the familiar to build a new life in colonial Fiji, is deeply admired. They brought with them enduring values: hard work, self-reliance, integrity, loyalty, harmony, and respect for family.
"Seven generations later, those same values continue to shine within Fiji's Chinese community. Your contributions to education, health, business, professional fields, politics, culture, and infrastructure have helped shape the Fiji we now know.
"You have strengthened the bonds of friendship between our peoples and enriched the social and economic fabric of our beloved nation."
Reflecting on the diplomatic relations, the Prime Minister shared that Fiji's partnership with the People's Republic of China has brought tangible benefits across many sectors - from agriculture, fisheries, and forestry to infrastructure, manufacturing, mining, medicine, and public health.
"Fifty years ago, Fiji and China established diplomatic relations founded on mutual respect, equality, and non-interference, opening a new chapter in our partnership.
"People-to-people ties between Fiji and China have continued to flourish through mutual visa exemptions, sister-city partnerships, cultural exchanges, medical assistance, and scholarships that enable Fijian students to study in China. Both nations have stood shoulder to shoulder during global crises, demonstrating genuine solidarity and enduring friendship.
"Our partnership has also strengthened the bonds between our peoples, creating new pathways for cooperation in business, education, sports, and culture."
Looking to the future, Hon. Rabuka said both nations remained committed to strengthening cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, and climate resilience.
"Looking ahead, I am confident that this partnership will continue to grow stronger as we work together to confront the great challenges of our time - from climate change and disaster resilience to poverty alleviation and sustainable growth."
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the Chinese community for your enduring contributions to Fiji's nation's unity, growth and prosperity.
"From humble beginnings as traders and farmers to the leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals we see today - your journey mirrors Fiji's own story of resilience and renewal.
"You are an integral part of our national fabric and a bridge that continues to connect our two great peoples."
This was the sentiment shared by the Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka, at the celebration marking the 170 years of Chinese Settlement in Fiji and the 50th Anniversary of China-Fiji Diplomatic Relations in Suva today (25:10:2025).
Hon. Rabuka stated that the celebration reflected the rich diversity within the Chinese community in Fiji, as well as the shared pride and unity that bind them in celebrating their enduring heritage and contribution to our nation.
"Over the years, new generations of Chinese have arrived -men and women from many professions and sectors - all contributing to the life and progress of our nation," Hon. Rabuka stated.
"The courage of those first settlers, who left behind the familiar to build a new life in colonial Fiji, is deeply admired. They brought with them enduring values: hard work, self-reliance, integrity, loyalty, harmony, and respect for family.
"Seven generations later, those same values continue to shine within Fiji's Chinese community. Your contributions to education, health, business, professional fields, politics, culture, and infrastructure have helped shape the Fiji we now know.
"You have strengthened the bonds of friendship between our peoples and enriched the social and economic fabric of our beloved nation."
Reflecting on the diplomatic relations, the Prime Minister shared that Fiji's partnership with the People's Republic of China has brought tangible benefits across many sectors - from agriculture, fisheries, and forestry to infrastructure, manufacturing, mining, medicine, and public health.
"Fifty years ago, Fiji and China established diplomatic relations founded on mutual respect, equality, and non-interference, opening a new chapter in our partnership.
"People-to-people ties between Fiji and China have continued to flourish through mutual visa exemptions, sister-city partnerships, cultural exchanges, medical assistance, and scholarships that enable Fijian students to study in China. Both nations have stood shoulder to shoulder during global crises, demonstrating genuine solidarity and enduring friendship.
"Our partnership has also strengthened the bonds between our peoples, creating new pathways for cooperation in business, education, sports, and culture."
Looking to the future, Hon. Rabuka said both nations remained committed to strengthening cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, and climate resilience.
"Looking ahead, I am confident that this partnership will continue to grow stronger as we work together to confront the great challenges of our time - from climate change and disaster resilience to poverty alleviation and sustainable growth."
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the Chinese community for your enduring contributions to Fiji's nation's unity, growth and prosperity.
"From humble beginnings as traders and farmers to the leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals we see today - your journey mirrors Fiji's own story of resilience and renewal.
"You are an integral part of our national fabric and a bridge that continues to connect our two great peoples."
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