PRESIDENT Xi Jinping said yesterday that China supports the Solomon Islands in enhancing exchanges and cooperation with Guangdong Province and other provinces and cities.

Xi made the remarks when meeting with Solomon Islands’ Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse.

Guangdong has a sound foundation and rich experience in conducting local cooperation with Pacific island countries, Xi said.

The establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the Solomon Islands conforms to the trend of the times, Xi Jinping said.

Xi also said that the two countries have huge potential for tourism cooperation.

China congratulated the Solomon Islands on becoming an overseas destination for Chinese tourists and welcomes the Pacific island country to participate in the events of China-Pacific Island countries tourism year.

Noting that the Solomon Islands are located at the extended area of the 21st century Maritime Silk Road, Xi called on China and the Solomon Islands to seize the opportunity of signing the memorandum of understanding on jointly building the Belt and Road and carry cooperation in key areas including trade and investment, infrastructure construction and telecommunications.

China and the Solomon Islands signed a joint communique in Beijing on Sept. 21, 2019, on the establishment of diplomatic relations.

Prior to the signing of the communique, the Solomon Islands announced that it recognized the one-China principle and severed the so-called “diplomatic ties” with Taiwan. (Xinhua)