Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks at a joint press conference with Tkachenko following a meeting between the two ministers. Wang and Tkachenko unanimously believed that China and PNG should continue mutual trust and support, and unswervingly maintain and develop the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.
Wang noted that since the establishment of China-PNG diplomatic relations, China has always regarded PNG as a significant partner and close friend, viewed the bilateral ties from a strategic perspective and enhanced the exchanges between the two countries on equal footing.
China firmly supports PNG in safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as adopting a successful development path that suits the country's national conditions, said Wang, also appreciating PNG's adherence to the one-China principle, and backing to China's core interests and major concerns. Wang and Tkachenko unanimously agreed to constantly focus on development, pay heed to people's welfare, and promote mutually beneficial cooperation in all spheres.
Wang said that PNG was the first Pacific island country to sign the memorandum of understanding and cooperation plan on Belt and Road cooperation, and has become China's largest trading partner, investment destination and project contracting market in the region. With the joint efforts of both sides, important progress has been achieved in implementing the outcomes of Prime Minister James Marape's visit to China in October last year.
In key areas, such as disaster prevention and mitigation, information and communications, agricultural products trade, and energy, the two sides are determined to push for practical cooperation with higher quality, faster speed and better results, said Wang. Speaking of the recent flood disasters in PNG, Wang expressed empathy for the situation, saying that China has extended emergency humanitarian aid to PNG and will send a batch of relief supplies next week.
