A two-week seminar on exchanging economic development experiences between China and Pacific Island Countries (PICs) commenced in Beijing on November 19, 2024.
Organized by China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), the seminar aims to strengthen exchanges and cooperation between China and Pacific Islands Countries (PICs) in various fields such as economic development and governance.
In her opening address, Ms. Guo Rui, Deputy Director of the Department of International Cooperation at the NDRC, welcomed delegations from the Solomon Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM).
She emphasized that China valued the diplomatic relationship they have with the Pacific Island Countries. She believed that learning from each other’s experience would help to map a way forward for developing countries like Solomon Islands and FSM. The Seminar provides an opportunity for the participating countries to learn from each other’s experiences.
Solomon Islands government is represented at the seminar by 10 senior officials from the Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination (MNPDC) led by Deputy Secretary Programme Development Coordination & Monitoring (PDCM), Mr Roy Mae.
Addressing attendees, Solomon Islands Ambassador to China, His Excellency Barret Salato, highlighted the rapid benefits derived from the Solomon Islands-China diplomatic relationship, established just four years ago. He stressed the seminar’s significance as a platform for Pacific policymakers to exchange ideas, share strategies, and propose practical solutions for addressing development challenges.
“China’s success in lifting over 800 million people out of poverty offers invaluable lessons for countries like ours,” Ambassador Salato noted. He outlined transformative infrastructure—including roads, bridges, ports, and telecommunications—as key to unlocking the Solomon Islands’ development potential.
Head of the delegation Mr. Roy Mae of MNDPC acknowledged PRC on behalf of the Government and people of Solomon Islands for the opportunity to participate in the Seminar, and for the support and commitment to advancing development in Solomon Islands since diplomatic ties was established between the two countries.
Mr Mae said PRC contributions and support are invaluable and critical in advancing national development aspirations, policies and plans to be realised.
He stated that the seminar aligns closely with the priorities of the current Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) to accelerate economic growth and enhance resilience and it is an initiative that it is a critical step toward empowering our technical officers with practical insights, innovative strategies, and collaborative opportunities to address our challenges and drive meaningful change. The program covers course lectures, cultural sites and visits to certain development institutions that are behind China’s success. The Seminar will run for 14 days and will conclude on the 3rd of December 2024.
