Talks are underway between Fiji and China on the possibility of including the Chinese fast growing currency, the Renminbi into the basket of Fiji's trading currencies.
 
The Ministry of Information confirmed that Foreign Minister Ratu Inoke Kubuabola met his Chinese Counterpart Yang Jiechi, at the Headquarters of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in Beijing.
 
While discussing the inclusion of the Chinese currency into Fiji trading currencies, Ratu Inoke said the initiative will assist tremendously in facilitating Fiji's trade with China and is also part of Fiji's Look North Policy.

Ratu Inoke who is in China on the official invitation of the Chinese Government, reaffirmed to Yang, Fiji's adherence to the "One China Policy" recognizing Sovereignty over Taiwan and Fiji's wishes to maintain cordial and workable relations with the Chinese Government based on mutual respect for sovereignty and shared interest.  

A statement said the two Foreign Ministers talked over a wide range of issues including Bilateral Exchanges and Cooperation.

It has also been revealed that China will be establishing a Confucius Institute in Fiji and will explore the notion also of establishing sister cities with some of China's fast growing metropolitan cities.

Ratu Inoke also reiterated that Fiji is now seriously looking at the prospect of purchasing weapons from Chinese manufacturers to assist Fiji's effort in participation in UN Peacekeeping and Peace building Missions.

Yang confirmed that he would like to formally visit Fiji in the near future and advised on the necessity of building strong political and bilateral relations founded on mutual respect and trust.


Story by: Roneel Lal