China stands ready to work with New Zealand on development of island countries

China stands ready to work with New Zealand to carry out more tripartite and multi-party collaborative projects in line with the wishes of island countries so as to jointly build an open, inclusive, united and cooperative South Pacific, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday.

Speaking to Nanaia Mahuta, foreign minister of New Zealand, via video link, Wang said China is willing to share its development opportunities with island countries that have diplomatic ties with it while respecting New Zealand's traditional links with island countries as well as existing cooperative mechanisms.

Cooperation between China and Pacific Island countries could totally run parallel to and complement with existing arrangements in the region, Wang added.

Noting that Pacific Island countries are confronted with severe challenges including coping with the pandemic, reviving their economies and tackling climate change, Mahuta said New Zealand and China should help them overcome challenges through bilateral and multilateral platforms.

She said New Zealand holds that the China-proposed Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative are of strategic significance and is ready to make concerted efforts with China for global security and development.

This year marks 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Beijing and Wellington.

Wang said the two countries adhere to non-interference in others' internal affairs and have never imposed their will on other sides during interactions over the past half-century, adding that such valuable experience deserves to be promoted.

China appreciates that the New Zealand government pursues a positive and pragmatic China policy, Wang said, adding Beijing has always viewed Wellington as an important strategic cooperative partner.

China is willing to work with New Zealand to enhance political mutual trust, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, and consolidate public opinion foundation for bilateral ties, Wang said.

He called for the two countries to implement the protocol on upgrading the free trade agreement and leverage ministerial dialogue on climate change to step up the realization of green recovery.

Mahuta said that New Zealand abides by the one-China principle while appreciating that China respects that New Zealand follows an independent foreign policy.

Noting the two countries could achieve common goals through dialogue, she said New Zealand and China could carry out cooperation in such fields as tackling climate change, fighting the pandemic and promoting regional development and prosperity.

The two sides also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern.