On September 27 (local time), to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Fiji, the 10th anniversary of friendly exchanges between Guangzhou and the capital city Suva, and 170 years since Chinese immigrants first arrived in Fiji, a fleet of 600 drones performed a light show over Suva.
Despite rainy weather, the drones displayed images and text in the night sky, including the anniversaries being celebrated, the national flags of both countries, and an animation of a panda drinking kava, a traditional Fijian beverage.
On this occasion, Fiji's Acting Prime Minister Biman Prasad hailed the nation's relationship with China as stronger than ever as the two countries mark five decades of formal diplomatic relations.
Speaking at a ceremony celebrating 50 years of Fiji-China ties and the 76th anniversary of the People's Republic of China, Prasad described the partnership as "reaching unprecedented levels" and built on mutual respect and shared interests.
"Our relationship with China stands as a testament to what nations can achieve through cooperation while respecting each other's sovereignty," the acting prime minister told attendees.
Prasad specifically praised development projects under China's Belt and Road Initiative and South-South cooperation framework, noting how Chinese-built infrastructure, including roads, hospitals, and schools, has transformed communities across Fiji.
"These projects demonstrate China's concrete commitment to global development goals and have tangibly improved the lives of our people," he said.
The minister also acknowledged the 170-year contributions of Fiji's Chinese community, stating they have "significantly enriched our nation's economic development and cultural diversity."
Chinese Ambassador Zhou Jian to Fiji, addressing the same gathering, noted that the five-decade relationship has yielded substantial benefits for both nations. "Our comprehensive strategic partnership has delivered real results for our peoples," Ambassador Zhou said. "From infrastructure to agricultural technology, our cooperation has raised living standards across Fiji."
Looking ahead, China's top diplomat in Fiji outlined several areas for continued cooperation, including expanded trade, increased Chinese investment, and joint climate change initiatives.
The ambassador also announced plans to deepen people-to-people exchanges through medical outreach programs, cultural performances, and additional scholarship opportunities for Fijian students.
Reporter: Guo Zedong
Video & Cover: Liang Zijian
Editor: Yuan Zixiang, James Campion, Shen He
Source: Guangzhou Foreign Affairs Office
