BEIJING, CHINA | TUNGARU PRESS | October 26, 2026
Two diplomats from Kiribati have completed a 10-day diplomatic training programme in China, joining representatives from seven other Pacific Island countries in an initiative aimed at strengthening diplomatic relations and cooperation between China and the Pacific region.
The 5th Workshop for Diplomats from Pacific Island Countries was held from October 14 to 24, 2026, in Beijing and Fujian Province.
Sponsored by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and organised by the China Foreign Affairs University (CFAU), the programme brought together 14 diplomats from Pacific Island foreign ministries.
The workshop focused on diplomatic engagement, economic development, climate change and China's foreign policy.
Kiribati Represented by Two Foreign Affairs Officials
Kiribati's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI) was represented by Director Teata Terubea and Foreign Service Officer Rubeteiti Kotete.
The two officials joined diplomats from Fiji, the Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru (Naoero), Samoa, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu.
Their participation provided an opportunity to exchange professional experiences with fellow Pacific diplomats while gaining further insight into China's diplomatic institutions and policy priorities.
The workshop also allowed participants to develop contacts with Chinese officials, academics and other representatives involved in international relations.
Training Covers Climate Change, Economy and Foreign Policy
Throughout the programme, participants attended lectures delivered by professors and specialists from China Foreign Affairs University.
The sessions covered several major topics, including China's Belt and Road Initiative, global climate change, the Chinese economy and President Xi Jinping's approach to diplomacy.
These discussions provided participants with an opportunity to examine China's perspectives on international affairs and economic cooperation.
Climate change was among the subjects covered, an issue of particular importance to Kiribati and other low-lying Pacific Island nations.
The programme also introduced diplomats to aspects of China's governance and development policies.
Diplomatic Visits and Cultural Activities
In addition to classroom sessions, participants took part in field visits and cultural activities in Beijing and Fujian Province.
The programme included visits to China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, press conferences, industrial facilities and historical landmarks.
These activities gave participants opportunities to observe different aspects of China's government, economy and cultural heritage.
The visits also encouraged professional networking and discussions among diplomats from different Pacific countries.
Strengthening China-Pacific Relations
The workshop formed part of China's ongoing diplomatic engagement with Pacific Island countries.
By bringing together representatives from eight Pacific nations, the programme provided a platform for participants to exchange views and develop professional relationships.
For Kiribati, participation offered an opportunity to strengthen the skills and international experience of officials serving in its Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration.
The training also exposed participants to Chinese policy perspectives on issues that feature in regional and international diplomatic discussions.
Workshop Concludes After 10 Days
The programme officially concluded on October 24, following 10 days of academic sessions, institutional visits and cultural exchanges.
The participating diplomats returned from the workshop with additional exposure to China's diplomatic practices and opportunities to maintain professional connections established during the programme.
For Kiribati, the workshop represented another opportunity to build diplomatic capacity and engage with regional partners on issues affecting Pacific Island countries.
Adapted and rewritten for Tungaru Press
Tungaru Press | Local Voices, Global Stories.
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