Xi welcomes Solomon Islands' hand of friendship

The establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the Solomon Islands conforms to the trend of times, President Xi Jinping said on Wednesday.

He made the remark when meeting with visiting Solomon Islands' Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.

Friendship never comes late, Xi said, adding that China supports the Solomon Islands to carry out exchanges and cooperation with Guangdong province.

Xi also said that the two countries have huge potential for tourism cooperation.

China congratulated that the Solomon Islands has become an overseas destination for Chinese tourists and welcomes the Pacific island country to participate in the events of China-Pacific Island countries tourism year.

Noting that the Solomon Island is located at the extended area of the 21st century Maritime Silk Road, Xi called on China and the Solomon Islands to seize the opportunity of signing the memorandum of understanding on jointly building the Belt and Road and carry cooperation in key areas including trade and investment, infrastructure construction and telecommunications.