The Speaker of Fiji’s Parliament, Filimone Jitoko, has shared insights from his recent visits to Beijing, Shanghai, and Shaanxi, highlighting how China’s development strategies could help Fiji address its own challenges.
In an exclusive interview, Jitoko praised China’s ability to relocate and rehabilitate people from remote areas, describing it as a powerful tool for poverty alleviation. “China’s approach to lifting people out of poverty through relocation and education is something we can learn from,” he said.
As Fiji and China celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations, Jitoko reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to the one-China principle and expressed appreciation for China’s initiatives and leadership on the global stage.
The Speaker also emphasized the importance of technological assistance in the fight against climate change. “In this era of climate change, China’s technological support can be vital for island nations like Fiji,” Jitoko noted.
During his visits to China, Jitoko was particularly impressed by the rapid development and modernization he witnessed. “Seeing the transformation in cities like Beijing and Shanghai was eye-opening,” he shared. “China’s success in infrastructure development and technology is something Fiji can aspire to.”
Education emerged as a key theme in the discussions. Jitoko believes that investing in education, much like China has done, is essential for Fiji’s future. “Empowering our youth through education will enable us to tackle poverty and stimulate growth,” he stated.
The Speaker also touched on the importance of cultural exchange between the two nations. “Building strong people-to-people connections will strengthen our friendship and mutual understanding,” he said.
With climate change impacting island nations disproportionately, Jitoko emphasized the urgency of collaborative efforts. He expressed optimism about China’s role in providing technological solutions to environmental challenges. “China’s advancements in renewable energy and sustainable practices can help us protect our islands for future generations,” he remarked.
As Fiji looks ahead, the insights from China’s development journey offer valuable lessons. Jitoko concluded, “By learning from China’s experiences, we can find innovative ways to overcome our challenges and build a prosperous future for Fiji.”
