China is the way to go for Fiji as far as understanding, opportunities and assistance is concerned and we should forget about countries like Australia, NZ, the US and even the Pacific Islands Forum when it comes to political relations.
Those are the words of Fiji's Prime Minister, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama as he continues his visit to China.
Speaking to Fijivillage News from China, Commodore Bainimarama said China is one country that understands the reforms that Fiji has to implement and it is important for Fiji to continue to strengthen its relations with China as it is not obstructing in Fiji's internal affairs.
He said he has also made his stand clear to officials in China.
Commodore Bainimarama said while trade can be maintained with countries like Australia and NZ, political relations need to be forgotten for now with some of these countries and the Forum.
Meanwhile a high level of interest has been shown so far from potential Chinese investors who are interested in setting up businesses in Fiji.
Commodore Bainimarama said the prospects are huge for Fiji and the advantages for the country will be seen in the very near future.
He said there is already talks of more Chinese tourists coming to our shores after successful tourism campaigns at the World Expo in Shanghai.
Then there are some planned tourism projects which includes Chinese investors interested in building hotels in Fiji.
Commodore Bainimarama has also visited a bus factory in China and the first set of buses from there are expected to arrive soon which will be used as tourist buses.
Rural development projects are also expected to be accelerated towards the end of this year with 5 million dollars worth of machinery arriving from China to assist in the projects.
Commodore Bainimarama said the government is grateful to China for the grant which includes heavy machinery like tractors and bulldozers that will assist in infrastructure projects.
Story by: Vijay Narayan
