Vanuatu Acting President Kenneth Natapei and Caretaker Prime Minister and President of the Vanua’aku Party Bob Loughman recently sent messages of congratulations to President Xi Jinping on the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. They also wished the Communist Party of China (CPC) a successful 20th National Congress.

Acting President Kenneth Natapei congratulated President Xi Jinping on the remarkable national governance achievements of the CPC under President Xi’s leadership. He wrote that with this year marking 40 years of diplomatic relations, our two countries continue to enjoy a most cordial and vibrant relationship. China remains an important development partner and ever-present friend of Vanuatu. Vanuatu will continue to abide by the one-China policy, and looks forward to working closely with China, to promote greater synergy between “Vanuatu 2030: The People’s Plan” and the Global Development Initiative, advance cooperation within the Belt and Road framework, and take Vanuatu-China relationship to a higher level.

Prime Minister Bob Loughman extended commendation and admiration for the tremendous achievements China has made under the strong leadership of the CPC, and expressed gratitude to China’s great contributions to Vanuatu’s national development through cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative. He wrote that the formal establishment of the People’s Republic of China on 1 October 1949 gives meaning to the rich history of the wisdom, strength and endurance of the Chinese people led by the CPC. Over the past 40 years, Vanuatu-China relations have continued to remain cordial and mutually beneficial, premised on the one-China policy and featuring mutual respect, solidarity and coordination between developing countries. It is through practical action that China proves a trustworthy true friend of Vanuatu. Vanuatu will continue to adhere to the one-China principle, and constantly elevate Vanuatu-China comprehensive strategic partnership to new heights.