In a bid to strengthen ties with the Chinese diaspora in Papua New Guinea, enhance communication, and unite efforts for common development, the Chinese Embassy in Papua New Guinea convened a dialogue on June 5 with representatives of major Chinese associations across the country.
The meeting featured in-depth discussions on China’s current development, China–PNG relations, diaspora affairs, and the safety and well-being of overseas Chinese residents.
Chinese Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, H.E. Yang Xiaoguang, expressed sincere gratitude to the participating Chinese associations for their long-standing support of the Embassy’s work. He commended the key role the community has played in promoting people-to-people exchanges, advancing practical cooperation, and serving the growth of the Chinese diaspora in PNG.
The Embassy first presented an overview of China’s latest development achievements. In recent years, China’s economy has maintained steady growth. In 2024, China’s GDP reached 134.9 trillion RMB, firmly securing its position as the world’s second-largest economy and contributing over one-third to global economic growth. Emerging industries represented by high-speed rail, 5G, artificial intelligence, and new energy are flourishing. Society remains stable, and the public’s sense of gain, happiness, and security continues to rise. China’s path to modernization is progressing steadily.
Ambassador Yang also highlighted the sound momentum in China–PNG bilateral relations. High-level interactions between the two countries have become increasingly frequent, with growing cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchange. China remains PNG’s largest trading partner and a major source of investment. PNG has also actively participated in the Belt and Road Initiative. The Embassy encouraged Chinese associations to continue serving as a bridge for people-to-people diplomacy and to inject new vitality into the bilateral relationship.
In his remarks, Mr. Liu Juncai, Vice President of the China–Papua New Guinea Friendship Association, acknowledged the widespread concerns among Chinese nationals in PNG regarding personal safety, legal protections, and consular assistance. He stressed the importance of enhancing legal awareness and risk prevention among the diaspora, urging community members to conduct business in accordance with local laws and regulations. Liu also proposed that the association and its regional branches regularly issue safety alerts and policy updates.
He affirmed the Association’s and the Chinese Service Center’s commitment to supporting the Embassy’s efforts to build a safe and orderly community environment for Chinese nationals, strengthen cooperation among Chinese organizations, and enhance the overall cohesion and self-protection capabilities of the diaspora.
Mr. Liu further emphasized that the overseas Chinese community would continue to uphold the spirit of patriotism and hometown affinity, and actively fulfill its role as a bridge for exchange and cooperation between China and PNG. He called on the Chinese community to:
- Continue fostering unity and serving fellow overseas Chinese;
- Engage actively in China–PNG exchanges and cooperation, share China’s story, and spread positive energy;
- Adhere to lawful operations, contribute to local society, and participate in public welfare, thereby showcasing a positive image of the Chinese people and adding momentum to China–PNG friendship.
The meeting was characterized by a warm and productive atmosphere, with rich exchanges and lively interaction. Representatives from participating Chinese associations expressed their strong commitment to unity and cooperation, reaffirming their support for the work of the Embassy. They pledged to continue contributing to the advancement of China–PNG relations and to the shared vision of national rejuvenation and the building of a China–PNG community with a shared future.