Fiji's Prime Minister Heads to China: A Diplomatic Balancing Act

Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka embarks on his first official visit to China, focusing on poverty reduction and agricultural programs. He assured that the visit wouldn't destabilize Pacific regional security. The trip occurs amidst U.S.-China rivalry for influence in the Pacific Islands, and ahead of significant regional policing discussions.

Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka embarked on his inaugural visit to China on Monday, emphasizing poverty reduction initiatives while maintaining regional security in the Pacific. Rabuka clarified he would not upset the 'apple cart' in this delicate geopolitical region.

During his tour from August 12 to August 21, Rabuka will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. His visit comes at a critical time as China and the U.S. vie for dominance in the strategically-important Pacific Islands. Additionally, the trip precedes a Pacific Islands Forum set to deliberate on an Australia-backed regional policing proposal.

Rabuka, who assumed office in 2022, has advocated for an 'Ocean of Peace' foreign policy aimed at engaging all major powers while preventing militarization of the Pacific Islands. He also intends to explore China's agricultural and fisheries initiatives, which he deems beneficial for poverty alleviation. This visit follows his announcement of ending China's police embedding practice in Fiji and introducing an Australian-assisted 'police force reset' focusing on curbing drug trafficking.

(With inputs from agencies.)