The Pacific Island country of Fiji has been fully prepared for the coming China-Pacific Island Countries Economic Development and Cooperation Forum, said a senior Fiji press officer.

Sakisua Rokotakala, media coordinator of the Fiji government for the forum and senior information officer for public affairs, said in an interview with Xinhua on Tuesday that the greatest advantages of his country for hosting the forum is the hospitality and smiles of people, besides the strong sunshine and quietly beautiful beaches and other famous scenic spots.

The first ministerial meeting of the forum is scheduled to be held in Nadi of Fiji from April 5 to 6, jointly sponsored by the Chinese and Fiji governments.

Many colorful flags and posters for the forum are seen on the two sides of streets leading to the main venue of the forum meetings -- Softel Hotel.

Officers from the Fiji government and the Chinese Embassy in Fiji greeted all the participants of the forum at the Nadi International Airport.

The media coordinator said Nadi, with a population of about 15, 000, is not called a city in his country. However, it has an international airport and has rich experience in hosting international conferences.

He said his government set up a preparatory committee for hosting the forum one year ago and that the committee has been in close consultation with the Chinese Embassy here to ensure the preparations to go on smoothly.

The officer said the preparations include security arrangements, forum related affairs and reception for all delegates from China, eight south Pacific Island countries and Australia and New Zealand.

He said free shuttle buses among the forum venue and two other hotels where delegates stay will be available every five minutes.

A number of security guards are seen patrolling the Sheraton Resorts and Softel Hotel. However, the officer said security personnel and officers are enough for ensuring the smooth progress of the event.

The security men have been patrolling the meeting related hotels and meeting venue to ensure the safety of all participants.

He said the tourist arrivals in Fiji stood at over 510,000 last year and the annual target of his country is 1 million in the coming years.

He said his country would make more efforts to develop tourism facilities such as hotels, so as to attract more visitors.

The press officer said the hosting of the forum meeting is a very good chance for the publicity of his country and good channel to seek cooperation and investment in tourism development.

Source: Xinhua