Xi stresses respect with Pacific Island countries

President Xi Jinping on Monday reiterated full respect for the sovereignty and independence of Pacific Island countries, saying China adheres to the principle all countries are equal regardless of size.

Xi made the remarks when meeting with Prime Minister of Solomon Islands Manasseh Sogavare in Beijing, who is currently on an official visit to China.

Noting both China and PICs are developing countries, he called on the two sides to strengthen mutual assistance within the framework of South-South cooperation.

Xi expressed Beijing's full respect for PICs' will in terms of cooperation by holding to the principles of wide consultation, joint contribution, shared benefits and win-win results.

He said China will fully respect the cultural traditions of PICs on the basis of seeking harmony without uniformity.

The president also stressed China fully respects PICs choice to strengthen themselves through cooperation and supports island countries in the Pacific to implement the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. Such efforts will contribute to building a region of peace, harmony, security, social inclusion and increased prosperity, he said.