China on Friday proposed to set up an economic forum with Pacific island countries in an effort to boost its ties with the region.

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi put forward the proposal at the 17th Post-Forum dialogue with the Pacific Island Forum (PIF).

The proposed China-Pacific Islands Economic Development and Cooperation Forum is designed to cover areas like environment, tourism, legislation, education, agriculture and fisheries, and health.

Yang also announced China's assistance to the Pacific Plan adopted at the just-concluded 36th PIF.

The ten-year Pacific Plan is aimed at helping the region's economic growth, good governance and security.

Yang spoke highly of China's close relations with PIF members, which feature frequent high level exchanges and tighter economic and trade ties.

He said China's development means a key opportunity for all Asia-Pacific countries, while a long-term friendly relationship of cooperation with Pacific island countries is an important part of China's diplomatic policy.

China is willing to be a good neighbor and a good partner for Pacific island countries and make contributions to the region's stability and development, he said.

The forum side said China has played an active role in the region's social and economic development through its aid programs for the past many years.

The forum side said it would enhance contacts and exchanges with China and carry out the proposed projects as quickly as possible.

Yang also briefed the forum side on the situation across the Taiwan Straits, reiterating the Chinese government's principled stand on Taiwan.

The forum side said the organization will continue to handle Taiwan-related issues in accordance with the one-China principle.

The forum delegation included Papua New Guinean Foreign Minister Rabbie Namaliu, Samoan Minister for Commerce, Industry and Labor Hans Keil, Togan Foreign Minister Tuba Tupou and PIF Deputy Secretary General Iosefa Maiava.

Source: Xinhua