China, Papua New Guinea boost Belt and Road cooperation

Premier Li Keqiang and visiting Papua New Guinea counterpart Peter O'Neill oversaw the signing of multiple agreements on Thursday that boost cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and in other areas.

China's relations with Papua New Guinea have made steady progress, and can be a good example for its ties with other Pacific island countries, said Premier Li.

Prime Minister O'Neill's visit to China is seen as an important high-level exchange, as among Pacific island countries Papua New Guinea has the largest population and land territory, and is seen to have significant regional impact.

Li said China especially appreciates Papua New Guinea's support of the one-China policy and its choice to develop in line with its unique national circumstances.

China would like to better align the Belt and Road Initiative with Papua New Guinea's development strategies and create more opportunities to boost cooperation in fields such as trade, energy, infrastructure and industrial production capacity, Li said.

Li said China will support Papua New Guinea in hosting this year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders' Meeting.

O'Neill said the two countries have maintained strong momentum with bilateral cooperation since the establishment of diplomatic ties. He reiterated that Papua New Guinea would like to work with China to boost trade, investments and large projects, and extended gratitude for China's support of the upcoming Leaders' Meeting.

O'Neill is leading a large delegation to China that includes 15 business leaders. After his stay in Beijing, he will fly to Shanghai on Friday, before heading to Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province, and Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong province.