On September 13, a reception celebrating the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the Federated States of Micronesia, and the 5th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the Solomon Islands, was held in Beijing. Vice President Shen Xin of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, Vincent Sivas, Ambassador of the Federated States of Micronesia to China, and Barrett Salato, Ambassador of the Solomon Islands to China, attended the reception and delivered speeches.

Shen noted that the friendly exchanges between the people of China and the Pacific island nations have a long history. In recent years, both sides have proactively expanded practical cooperation in many fields, which has not only enhanced the welfare of both peoples but also made significant contributions to regional peace and stability. Looking to the future, China is willing to work with Pacific island countries to continue deepening friendly exchanges and practical cooperation, fostering further progress in China-Pacific cooperation.

Sivas stated that since the establishment of diplomatic relations, exchanges and cooperation in political, economic, and cultural fields between Micronesia and China have deepened, with mutual understanding and trust continuously strengthening. The cooperation carried out within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative has significantly benefited both peoples. He expressed his hopes that both sides will further strengthen their friendship and cooperation in the future.

Salato remarked that since the establishment of diplomatic relations, many development cooperation projects have laid a solid foundation for the development of bilateral relations. The Solomon Islands highly appreciates and supports the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping, and looks forward to working with China to elevate bilateral relations to new heights.

Attending the reception were the Special Envoy for Pacific Island Countries Affairs of the Chinese Government, Qian Bo, officials from the International Department, Central Committee of C.P.C., the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Commerce, the National Youth Federation, the All-China Women's Federation, as well as representatives from provinces and municipalities, including Beijing, Shandong, Yiwu, and Liaocheng. Also present were representatives from universities, industry associations, enterprises, as well as foreign diplomats, international students, and representatives from countries such as Tonga, Samoa, Fiji, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Australia, and New Zealand, totaling over a hundred attendees.

During the reception, students from Minzu University of China and representatives from Solomon Islands performed captivating ethnic songs and dances.