Fijian FM commends outgoing Chinese ambassador

Fijian Foreign Minister Ratu Inoke Kubuabola on Tuesday expressed his ministry's appreciation to Huang Yong, outgoing Chinese ambassador to Fiji for his role in deepening ties between the two nations.

At a luncheon reception in Suva to farewell the Chinese diplomat, Kubuabola commended Huang's professionalism and diligence in deepening relations since his arrival in Fiji in 2011. The recent visit to Fiji by Chinese President Xi Jinping demonstrated China's commitment to working closely with the Fijian government, Kubuabola said.

"Not only was it a first state visit to Fiji by a Chinese head of state, your innovation in bringing together the other Pacific islands heads of state and heads of government was also the first for the Pacific," Kubuabola said.

Ambassador Huang's contribution to numerous beneficial bilateral arrangements aimed at improving the lives of ordinary Fijians through capacity building, cultural exchanges, academic studies, sports development and tourism did not go unnoticed, he said.

"The honorary award conferred to you yesterday by Fiji's head of state, His Excellency President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, underscores our deep appreciation for your distinguished services to Fiji," Kubuabola added, thanking Huang for his friendship and professionalism during his tenure as China's envoy to Fiji and wishing him well in his diplomatic career.

Fiji established diplomatic relations with China on Nov. 5, 1975, becoming the first Pacific island country to do so. Endi