The "Stride for Health, Unite Against Drugs" Walkathon, held at Albert Park, promoted healthy living and strengthened the joint commitment of China and Fiji to combat drug abuse.
The event was part of the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Speaking at the event, Chinese Ambassador to Fiji, Zhou Jian highlighted the serious threat that drug abuse poses globally, including in Fiji, where it is damaging communities, harming young people’s futures, causing poverty and crime, and slowing down development.
Ambassador Zhou spoke about China’s long history with drugs, dating back to the Opium War in the 1840s, saying this experience motivates China to assist Fiji in protecting the health and well-being of its people.
He says over many years, China has built the world’s most comprehensive anti-drug system.
He adds that, in 2024 alone, China investigated 38,000 drug-related crimes and seized 28 tonnes of narcotics, helping to safeguard the health of 1.4 billion people and supporting global efforts in the fight against drugs.
The Ambassador says China and Fiji have made significant progress in their anti-drug cooperation, with over 30 Fijian police officers having received training in China in recent years.
As the two nations celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties, Ambassador Zhou reaffirmed China’s readiness to deepen collaboration with the Fiji Police Force and other agencies by sharing expertise and technology to strengthen their united stand against drug abuse.
He emphasised that the campaign against drugs requires continuous commitment and collaboration from governments, communities, and international partners.
Ambassador Zhou adds that the walkathon is a symbol of friendship and shared commitment to a successful anti-drug campaign and a brighter future for China–Fiji relations.
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