As a dialogue partner of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), China respects the Forum’s role in regional cooperation, values its relations with the PIF, and cherishes opportunities to discuss with PIF members and other dialogue partners how to support the development of Pacific island developing countries under the Forum dialogue mechanism. Since the establishment of the PIF dialogue mechanism, China has participated in every Forum dialogue, and remains committed and looks forward to continuing such engagement including during the upcoming Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Solomon Islands and going forward, in accordance with established practice and the decision to be made by PIF members. Any attempt to accuse China in this regard is groundless. China categorically rejects and firmly opposes such attempts.

As confirmed at the Third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting last May, China stands ready to work with Pacific island countries (PICs) to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership featuring mutual respect and common development. China will continue to provide support for PICs’ development within the framework of South-South cooperation to the best of its ability. Recognizing climate change as the most pressing existential challenge confronting PICs, China fully understands and shares the concerns, and is committed to assisting PICs in addressing climate change challenges and achieving broader sustainable development.

Regarding the Taiwan question, Taiwan is a province of China—never a country, not in the past, not in reality, and never in the future. The principle of sovereignty is the cornerstone of the UN Charter. No country or individual should adopt any double standard. China and the overwhelming majority of PIF members maintain consistent and unequivocal positions on this matter of principle. That is why China’s Taiwan province has never been admitted as a PIF dialogue partner or observer from the outset, and has no qualification or right to participate in Forum activities whatsoever. This reflects the consensus of the vast majority of PIF members. China opposes any attempt to make an issue of the Taiwan question. We urge relevant parties to adhere to their one-China commitment in good faith, creating necessary conditions for the Forum to focus on cooperation agenda.