BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Solomon Islands Ambassador to China, Barrett Salato said China does not see the Solomon Islands as a small country, but as equal and important country.

Ambassador Salato said that in a recent interview with Xu Yawen of CGTN Radio Reporter yesterday, Friday, 30 May.

He responded to Xu Yawen of CGTN’s question on how Solomon Islands strengthens its relationship with China, what partnership is set for development in the region and what lessons or experiences he would share with other Pacific countries that are looking to work more closely with China.

“I can point to one aspect that I see with the relationship with China. China don’t see us as, you know, as small, you know. They see us as an important, equal, important country, even though we are small. That gives us a sense of dignity in ourselves, that yes, we can be proud of ourselves as well as that we can achieve something,” said Salato.

He also called for stronger China-Pacific Islands cooperation to empower small nations on their path to development.

 “Equality, respect and partnership, that’s the foundation of China-Pacific friendship,” said Ambassador Salato.

He said that China treated the Solomon Islands with respect and dignity to have the right to develop the country and its people and enjoy the fruits of development.

He said that China is demonstrating these values and principles in the Pacific region.

 “I would like to see more of China’s involvement in the region, in all areas of development, to assist the small countries like Solomon Islands, because we need, we need China to be there to share its experience with us and help us in our development pathway,” said Salato.

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