Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said Wednesday in Nadi that it is a strategic decision, not a diplomatic expediency, for China to foster friendship and cooperation with the Pacific island countries.

Premier Wen made the remarks in his keynote speech "Win-win Cooperation for Common Development" at the opening of the First Ministerial Conference of the China-Pacific Island Countries Economic Development and Cooperation Forum.

China firmly adheres to the path of peaceful development and pursues a policy of peace, development and cooperation in international affairs.

China is committed to "promoting peace and development through cooperation," and will continue to strengthen its friendship and cooperation with the Pacific island countries on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, said Premier Wen.

Politically, China maintains that all countries, whether big or small, strong or weak, rich or poor, are equal members of the international community and should treat each other as such.

China respects the social systems of the Pacific island countries and the development strategy they have adopted based on their national conditions and their efforts in safeguarding sovereignty and independence and preserving peace and stability in the region.

Economically, China shares the joy over the achievements of the Pacific island countries and is keenly aware of the difficulties they face in their development endeavor.

Wen said China is committed to implementing the UN Millennium Development Goals and helping the Pacific island countries improve capacity for self-development. China is ready to provide assistance without any political strings attached to the Pacific island countries to the best of its ability.

In international affairs, China strives to uphold the rights and interests of the developing countries, including the Pacific island countries, said the Chinese premier.

As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China supports the Pacific island countries in pursuing their legitimate interests regarding maritime resources exploration and protection, climate change and other issues and their right to equal participation in regional and international affairs.

Premier Wen arrived here Tuesday for an official visit to the Republic of the Fiji Islands, the first official visit by a Chinese premier to the South Pacific island country.

Fiji is the second leg of Premier Wen's four-nation Asia- Pacific tour, which has taken him to Australia and will take him to New Zealand and Cambodia.

Source: Xinhua