In a show of solidarity and mutual commitment to public health and societal well-being, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), Fiji Police Force, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs joined the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China yesterday in commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Fiji and China.

At the heart of this milestone celebration was a symbolic walk held under the theme “Stride for Health, Unite Against Drugs”, aimed at promoting healthy living and raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse. Senior officials and representatives from the Fijian security forces and government ministries walked side by side with His Excellency Zhou Jian, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Fiji, to reinforce the message of collective responsibility in building a safer and healthier society.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Zhou reflected on the five decades of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. “Our partnership has grown stronger across sectors – from infrastructure and health to peacekeeping and people-to-people exchanges. Today, we not only celebrate our diplomatic ties but also our shared values in promoting health, security, and the well-being of our communities,” he said.

Lieutenant Colonel Eroni Duaibe, representing the RFMF, emphasized the importance of united action. “Drug abuse poses a growing threat to our society. This walk is a reminder that combating it requires a whole-of-society approach. The RFMF stands ready to support initiatives that protect our people and build resilience.”

The occasion marks yet another chapter in the evolving Fiji–China relationship, which has spanned key areas of development, trade, education, and security cooperation. As the two countries look ahead, the shared commitment to public health and societal harmony continues to be a strong foundation of their enduring partnership.