Kiribati Ambassador to China David Teaabo Photo: Courtesy of Teaabo

The 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) endorses philosophies and policies that maintain the unity, trust and advancement of the CPC, and is expected to further guard and advance socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era, Kiribati Ambassador to China David Teaabo told the Global Times in a recent interview.

Teaabo expects that the CPC and the Chinese government will continue building deeper win-win partnerships with Pacific Island countries and achieve common development through the effective implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The ambassador said Kiribati and the world have witnessed China's outstanding achievements in numerous areas, and it deserves huge recognition and acknowledgment. 

Teaabo said he read the fourth volume of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China, and was impressed by President Xi's thought on socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era. 

"The key idea that impressed me most is the philosophy of 'adaptation.' That is, to 'adapt Marxism to China's realities and keep it up-to-date.' I think this is fundamental to the unity and advancement of the CPC and the strong trust of the Chinese people in their leaders, and for the peaceful social development and economic growth of China." said Teaabo.

Teaabo, who was impressed by the fast and efficient pace of life in China, said that the growth, development and prosperity of a country are founded on how hard-working its citizens are.

"One thing that intrigues me - as far as my observations and interests are concerned - is that the Chinese are never idle, and they occupy their time effectively. This is evidenced in the efficiency of deliveries made through e-commerce platforms," he said. The ambassador noted that the Kiribati people need to learn from the Chinese and strive for further prosperity. 

He appreciated China's assistance and support to Kiribati's infrastructure construction, saying that the renovation of Tobwaan te Rikirake Park by the Chinese government and companies is highly welcomed by the Kiribati people.

"Chinese-funded outdoor facilities like Tobwaan te Rikirake Park are now becoming popular and important celebratory sites. Especially for those living in South Tarawa as well as those coming from the rural areas who can now have great outdoor spaces. A place like Tobwaan te Rikirake Park to hold our celebrations gladdens us, and those who perfected the space for such celebrations have our trust," he continued.

The ambassador said he views the China-Kiribati relationship as significant and unique. "As an ordinary Pacific Islander and diplomat, I see China as an understanding, true, and trusted friend," he told the Global Times in a previous interview.

Kiribati's Vision for 20 Years (KV20) is an ambitious long-term plan; China's development assistance and cooperation through its BRI supports some of the important infrastructure objectives of the KV20 and other financial and technical assistance to Kiribati's development needs, according to Teaabo.

"As I always said, Kiribati is so grateful and privileged to have China as a good friend," the ambassador said.